"I've a job, perversely--that was my reason--on the other side of the world; which, by the way, I'm afraid, won't permit me to wait for tea.

My tea doesn't matter." The watch went back to his pocket.

"I'm sorry to say I must be off before five.

It has been delightful at all events to see you again." He was on his feet as he spoke, and though he had been half the time on his feet his last words gave the effect of his moving almost immediately to the door.

It appeared to come out with them rather clearer than before that he was embarrassed enough really to need help, and it was doubtless the measure she after an instant took of this that enabled Nanda, with a quietness all her own, to draw to herself a little more of the situation.