It was very unfortunate, but I don't suppose Everard cared much.

He would enjoy the opportunity of teasing you.' A glance told her that Everard was not alone in his enjoyment of the evening.

Rhoda led the talk into other channels, but Miss Barfoot continued to reflect on what she had perceived.
A few evenings after, when Miss Barfoot had been sitting alone for an hour or two, Rhoda came to the library and took a place near her.

The elder woman glanced up from her book, and saw that her friend had something special to say.
'What is it, dear ?' 'I am going to tax your good-nature, to ask you about unpleasant things.' Miss Barfoot knew immediately what this meant.

She professed readiness to answer, but had an uneasy look.
'Will you tell me in plain terms what it was that your cousin did when he disgraced himself ?' 'Must you really know ?' 'I wish to know.' There was a pause.