Valérie gracefully inclined her head, and Egerton, rising, lounged over to the man he had recognised.
The moment he was out of hearing, she turned to Trethowen, and said:
“Then you and Jack Egerton are friends?”
“Yes; I find him a very agreeable and good hearted fellow.”
“That may be.” She hesitated thoughtfully; then she added: “You do not know him as well as I do.”
“And what is your objection to him?” asked he in surprise.
“Hugh, yesterday you told me you loved me,” she said, looking seriously into his face.
“Yes, dearest, I did. I meant it.”
“Then; as I explained to you, I have many enemies as well as friends. Jack Egerton is one of the former, and will do all in his power to part us when he finds out our affection is mutual. Now you understand my antipathy.”
“Clearly,” he replied, puzzled. “But I know Jack too well; he would not be guilty of an underhand action.”