That indicates a move if I mistake not.

His usual _pied-a-terre_ has been Brisbane hitherto, has it not ?" His little dark eyes interrogated Avery for a moment before they vanished inwards with disconcerting completeness.
Avery stiffened instinctively.

She was well aware that Mr.Lorimer did not like her, but the fact held no disturbing element.

To her mind the dislike of the man was preferable to his favour and after all she saw but little of him.
She went on therefore with her occupation of cutting bread and butter for the children with no sign of annoyance save that slight, scarcely perceptible stiffening of the neck which only Gracie saw.
"I hope you are kind to your faithful correspondent," smiled Mr.Lorimer, still holding the letter between his finger and thumb.

"He evidently regards your friendship as a pearl of price, and doubtless he is well-advised to do so." Here he opened his eyes again, and sent a barbed glance at Avery's unresponsive face.
"Friendship is a beautiful thing, is it not ?" he said.
"It is," said Avery, deftly cutting her fifth slice.
The Reverend Stephen proceeded with clerical fervour to embellish his subject, for no especial reason save the pleasure of listening to his own eloquence--a pleasure which never palled.