Arthur fidgeted, and looked nervously around him. It was an awkward situation, but, after all, he had brought it on himself. He did not like to move away. Besides,[Pg 12] having started the conversation, it was only common politeness to wait until the stranger offered a remark. And presently, the latter opened his mouth again. This time he actually spoke.
FORE:"Damn the difference; I give you one half-minute, Captain Ferry, to say you surrender! If you weren't wounded I wouldn't give you that. Corporal, go get a log out of that fireplace downstairs."He left the room without more words, and Lady Keeling settled another cushion against what must be called the small of her back.
II cant say whether I should have been pleased or not, she said. It didnt happen. But Im sure I dont know why you sent your typewriter in here to talk to me. I dont know what you think I should find to say to her. With Alice here too."It's such a responsibility," said Arthur, presently. "If we were to get married, I mean. I might come home with the sack any day."Youre naughty too, he said. This is play-time. And now theres something else I want to talk about. You ladies are the queens of your homes: dont you think you could persuade Mr Keeling not to think me the thin edge of the Pope, so to speak?"We are journeying now up the mountain of life,