I had no wish to invite the girl's confidence.

At the same time, in the difficulties that now beset us, I could hardly feel justified in refusing to listen to her, if she was really bent on speaking to me.

It was an awkward position; and I dare say I got out of it awkwardly enough.

I said to her, 'I don't quite understand you.

Is there anything you want me to do ?' Mind, Betteredge, I didn't speak unkindly! The poor girl can't help being ugly--I felt that, at the time.
The cue was still in my hand, and I went on knocking the balls about, to take off the awkwardness of the thing.