He replied vaguely, so as to hide betrayal of a little pang; for he knew her thoughts were with Gerard. Association brought his own to Minna for the first time almost since he had caught sight of Irene in the cab. Dismaying comparisons forced themselves on his mind.
“Why are you frowning like that?” she asked, lightly.
“I was thinking of all the happiness you deserve.”
She laughed, with a little air of mockery.
“Does it distress you so much?”
“I suppose it does,” he said. “Now it is your turn to explain.”
But Irene, like a wise woman, dropped the subject.