Phyllis was unchanged.

How like Gretchen, I thought.
While Ethel was engaging my cousin's attention, I conducted Phyllis through the office.
"What a place to work in!" said Phyllis, laughing.

The laugh awakened a vague thrill.

"Dust, dust; everywhere dust.

You need a woman to look after you, Jack ?" As I did not reply, she looked quickly at me, and seeing that my face was grave, she flushed.
"Forgive me, Jack," impulsively; "I did not think." I answered her with a reassuring smile.
"How long are you to remain in town ?" I asked, to disembarrass her.
"We leave day after to-morrow, Saturday.