He only asked what in particular Madame de Vionnet had come for, and as to this his companion was ready.
"She wants tidings of Mr.Newsome, whom she appears not to have seen for some days." "Then she hasn't been away with him again ?" "She seemed to think," Maria answered, "that he might have gone away with YOU." "And did you tell her I know nothing of him ?" She had her indulgent headshake.

"I've known nothing of what you know.
I could only tell her I'd ask you." "Then I've not seen him for a week--and of course I've wondered." His wonderment showed at this moment as sharper, but he presently went on.
"Still, I dare say I can put my hand on him.

Did she strike you," he asked, "as anxious ?" "She's always anxious." "After all I've done for her ?" And he had one of the last flickers of his occasional mild mirth.

"To think that was just what I came out to prevent!" She took it up but to reply.

"You don't regard him then as safe ?" "I was just going to ask you how in that respect you regard Madame de Vionnet." She looked at him a little.