“A most appropriate sensation.” Eve shot him a lightning glance. Then— “We were to talk of the past,” she said quickly. “D’you remember this day a year ago?” Jeremy knitted his brows. “Was that the first time we met?” “It was,” said Eve. “May Day 1929. Here in this house. . . . Jeremy, I’ve a confession to make. I asked that you should be introduced to me.” “Well, I asked too.” “Why?” “Because I wanted to know you,” said Jeremy Broke. “Why?” “I suppose you attracted me.” “I must be attractive,” said Eve. “You are.” Miss Carew shrugged her white shoulders. “I’m still unmarried,” she said. “That,” said Jeremy Broke, “is your little fault. At least, Rumour has it that you’ve turned a good many down.” “Rumour is wrong,” said Eve. “I admit I’ve had one or two overtures, but the idea of being married for my money never appealed to me.” “I shouldn’t have thought,” said Broke, “that you need be afraid. If you were forty, instead of twenty-four; if you had a face like the back of a hansom; if——” “Here,” said Eve. “Don’t cut out the gilt. There was the making of a compliment. Besides, I value your opinion. What is my face like, Jeremy?” The man regarded her. “It’s not like anything I’ve ever seen,” he said. “My mouth,” said Eve, “is too large.” “No, it isn’t,” said Broke. “It’s just perfect. So’s your nose, an’—an’ the rest. That’s why it seems so wicked to cut your hair.” “Was it my face that attracted you—last year?” The man considered. “Your face and your pretty ways.” “You just felt you wanted to know me?” “Yes.” Eve sighed. “Well, you’ve had your wish,” she said. “I mean, you’ve got to know me pretty well.” “You’ve been very sweet,” said Jeremy. “Don’t mention it,” said Miss Carew. “It’s—it’s been a pleasure. Besides, I’m very lonely. And I wanted to know you, you know. . . . Never mind. I hope, when you’re married——” “I’m not engaged yet.” “That’s your little fault,” said Eve. “I could mention several ladies who have put their arms round your neck—certainly figuratively and, for all I know, literally.” “Rot”—incredulously. “My dear, I’ve seen it going on. Don’t be afraid—I’m not going to mention names.” “But I’ve no money.” “What does that matter? They have.” “I think you’re mistaken,” said Broke. “Everyone’s always very nice, but people don’t pick up stray curs——” “How dare you say such a thing?” Eve was on her feet. Her brown eyes were flaming, and there was wrath in her voice. Slowly Jeremy rose. “My dear Eve——” “How dare you speak like that? It’s cheap and paltry and it’s a wicked lie. D’you think I’d give my friendship to—to a stray cur?” “You have,” said Broke. “I’ve seen you. Down on the Portsmouth Road. His blood was all over your dress, and he died in your arms.” “Yes, but——”