The conversation was as haphazard and casual as the luncheon, until the pretty countess lighted a cigarette and tasted her tiny glass of Port--the latter a gift from Querida.

"Do you think it odd of me to call on you uninvited ?" she asked, with that smiling abruptness which sometimes arises from embarrassment.
"I think it is very sweet of you," said Valerie, "I am very happy to know that you remember me." The countess flushed up: "Do you really feel that way about it ?" "Yes," said Valerie, smiling, "or I would not say so." "Then--you give me courage to tell you that since I first met you I've been--quite mad about you." "About _me_!" in smiling surprise.
"Yes.

I wanted to know you.

I told Mrs.Hind-Willet to ask you to the club.

She did.