Something in her attitude, the droop of her head as it rested upon her fingers, reminded him suddenly of Beatrice.

He showed no other emotion than a sudden pause in his walk across the room.

Even that, however, in a person whose machinelike attitude towards her provoked her resentment, was noticeable.
"Good morning, my friend!" she said pleasantly.

"You have brought me the fresh list ?" "Unfortunately, no, madam," Tavernake answered.

"I have called simply to announce that I am not able to be of any further assistance to you in the matter." She looked at him for a moment without remark.
"Are you serious, Mr.Tavernake ?" she asked.
"Yes," he replied.