This haste and the anxious ear she turned towards the hall enlightened him as to the situation.

There was some one within hearing or liable to come within hearing, who possibly was not so stiff under temptation.

Could it be her husband?
If so, it might be worth his own while to await the good man's coming, if only he could manage to hold his own for the next few minutes.
Changing his tactics, he turned his back on the snuggery and surveyed the offended woman, with just a touch of maudlin sentiment.
"I say," he cried, just loud enough to attract the attention of any one within ear-shot.

"You're a mighty fine woman and the boss of this here establishment; that's evident.

I'd like to see the man who could say no to you.