Believe me, I thank you for the compliment.

I can't tell you how I appreciate this delicate flattery.

You are very delicious.

But," as she arose graciously, "I'd follow Mr.Rodney's example if I were you.
I'd go to bed." Then, with a rare smile which could not have been more chilling, she left him standing there.
"By Jove," he muttered, passing his hand across his eyes, as if bewildered, "what was I saying to her?
Good Lord, has it got to be a habit with me?
Was I making love to--_her_ ?" He departed for the American bar.
Mrs.Rodney had but little sleep that night.

She went to bed in a state of worry and uncertainty, oppressed by the shadows which threatened eternal darkness to the fair name of the family--however distantly removed.