Even what she could say, she was not sure.

But certainly there must be something, some little thing that she could say, which would open Alice's eyes to what she was doing, and what she ought to do.
It was in this frame of mind, therefore, that Billy, after Arkwright and Calderwell had gone, spoke to Alice.

She began warily, with assumed nonchalance.
"I believe Mr.Arkwright sings better every time I hear him." There was no answer.

Alice was sorting music at the piano.
"Don't you think so ?" Billy raised her voice a little.
Alice turned almost with a start.
"What's that?
Oh, yes.

Well, I don't know; maybe I do." "You would--if you didn't hear him any oftener than I do," laughed Billy.