It is absurd--in one sense....

Are we to be friends in town?
Is that what you mean ?" "Indeed we are, if you will." Miss Cardross nodded and withdrew her hands as Virginia and Malcourt came into view across the lawn.
Constance, following her glance, saw, and signalled silent invitation; Malcourt sauntered up, paid his respects airily, and joined Hamil and Wayward; Virginia spoke in a low voice to Constance, then, leaning on the back of her chair, looked at Shiela as inoffensively as she knew how.

She said: "I am very sorry for my rudeness to you.

Can you forgive me, Miss Cardross ?" "Yes....

Won't you have some tea ?" Her direct simplicity left Virginia rather taken aback.