"I am afraid father has never spoken to me of you."
She noticed that the men exchanged glances. Durrell intervened.
"Nance, child, the Chevalier will take tea with us."
"Yes, father."
She understood the hint and was glad to go. There was something puzzling and unwholesome about the man.
De Rothan followed her with his eyes.
"Faith, sir, the child is charming, and so innocent."
Durrell was not pleased.
"Do not try your airs and graces here, my friend."
"Psst—I am perfectly sincere. I pay homage to beauty——"