“I forgot all about them when I asked you,” cried Mavering, laughing out his delight. “They belong to some fellows that are giving spreads in their rooms, and I let them put them in here.”
“Do you commonly let people put things in your room that they want to get rid off?” asked Mrs. Pasmer.
“Well, not when I'm expecting company.”
“He couldn't refuse even then, if they pressed the matter,” said Mrs. Saintsbury, lecturing upon him to her friend.
“I'm afraid you're too amiable altogether, Mr. Mavering. I'm sure you let people impose upon you,” said the other lady. “You have been letting us impose upon you.”
“Ah! now that proves you're all wrong, Mrs. Pasmer.”
“It proves that you know how to say things very prettily.”
“Oh, thank you. I know when I'm having a good time, and I do my best to enjoy it.” He ended with the nervous laugh which seemed habitual with him.
“He, does laugh a good deal;” thought Mrs. Pasmer, surveying him with smiling steadiness. “I suppose it tires Alice. Some of his teeth are filled at the sides. That vein in his forehead—they say that means genius.” She said to him: “I hope you know when others are having a good time too, Mr. Mavering? You ought to have that reward.”
They both looked at Alice. “Oh, I should be so happy to think you hadn't been bored with it all, Mrs. Pasmer,” he returned;—with-deep feeling.