But this mustn't happen again.
With a strong effort of self-coercion she banished all delightful
recollections as she heard Bruce come up in the lift.
He came in with a slightly shy, uncomfortable manner. Again, she felt
sorry for him.
'Hallo!' he said.
He gave her a quick glance, a sort of cautious look which made her feel
rather inclined to laugh. Then he said:
'I've just been down to the club. What have you been doing?'
'Aylmer's been here.'
'Didn't know he was in town.'
'He's only come for a few days.'
'I should like to see him,' said Bruce, looking brighter. 'Did he ask
after me?'
'Yes.'
He looked at her again and said suspiciously:
'I suppose you didn't mention--'
'Mention what?'
'Edith!'
'Yes?'
He cleared his throat and then said with an effort of self-assertion
that she thought at once ridiculous and touching:
'Look here, I don't wish to blame you in any way for what--er--
arrangements you like to make in your own household. But--er--have you
written to Miss Townsend?'
'Yes; she won't come back.'
'Er--but won't she ask why?'
'I hope not.'
'Why?' asked Bruce, with a tinge of defiance.
'Because then I should have to explain. And I don't like explaining.'
There was another pause. Bruce seemed to take a great interest in his
nails, which he examined separately one at a time, and then all
together, holding both hands in front of him.
'Did Archie enjoy his day?'
'Oh yes,' said Edith.
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