Alpha Book

"I
n-never dreamed of offending you, Miss Erroll--"
"Do you suppose I am too ignorant to take offence?" said the girl
unsteadily. "I told you very plainly that I did not understand the
matters you chose for discussion; but I do understand impertinence when
I am driven to it."
"I am very, very sorry that you believe I meant it that way," said
Rosamund, biting her lips.
"What did you mean? You are older than I, you are certainly experienced;
besides, you are married. If you can give it a gentler name than
insolence I would be glad--for your sake, Mrs. Fane. I only know that
you have spoiled my ride, spoiled the day for me, hurt me, humiliated
me, and awakened, not curiosity, not suspicion, but the horror of it, in
me. You did it once before--at the Minsters' dance; not, perhaps, that
you deliberately meant to; but you did it. And your subject was then, as
it is now, Captain Selwyn--my friend--"
Her voice became unsteady again and her mouth curved; but she held her
head high and her eyes were as fearlessly direct as a child's.


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