“I’m awfully sorry, I’m engaged tomorrow.”
He knew this was the beginning of a scene which he would have given anything to avoid. The colour on Norah’s cheeks grew brighter.
“But I’ve asked the Gordons to lunch”—they were an actor and his wife who were touring the provinces and in London for Sunday—“I told you about it a week ago.”
“I’m awfully sorry, I forgot.” He hesitated. “I’m afraid I can’t possibly come. Isn’t there somebody else you can get?”
“What are you doing tomorrow then?”
“I wish you wouldn’t cross-examine me.”
“Don’t you want to tell me?”
“I don’t in the least mind telling you, but it’s rather annoying to be forced to account for all one’s movements.”
Norah suddenly changed. With an effort of self-control she got the better of her temper, and going up to him took his hands.
“Don’t disappoint me tomorrow, Philip, I’ve been looking forward so much to spending the day with you. The Gordons want to see you, and we’ll have such a jolly time.”