Whenever he speaks to me there is an evident effort on his part, and though perfectly courteous, his manner leaves a certain disagreeable impression.

Yes, he certainly has some reason for avoiding me." "The reason is plain enough," murmured Ethel.

"He wishes to prevent you from speaking about a painful subject, or at least a distasteful one.

He keeps you off at a distance by an excess of formality.

He will give you no opportunity whatever to introduce any mention of me.