But we are only from the country,' she added, looking at me askance, with a gleam of anger in her eyes.
I thanked her huskily, saying that I would not sit, as I could not stay.
'Simon Fleix,' I continued, finding my voice with difficulty, 'has, I am afraid, caused you some trouble by bringing you to this house instead of telling you that I had made preparation for you at my lodgings.' 'It was not Simon Fleix's fault,' she replied curtly.

'I prefer these rooms.

They are more convenient.' 'They are, perhaps, more convenient,' I rejoined humbly, 'But I have to think of safety, mademoiselle, as you know.

At my house I have a competent guard, and can answer for your being unmolested.' 'You can send your guard here,' she said with a royal air.
'But, mademoiselle--' 'Is it not enough that I have said that I prefer these rooms ?' she replied sharply, dropping her mask on her lap and looking round at me in undisguised displeasure.

'Are you deaf, sir?
Let me tell you, I am in no mood for argument.