"
"I just admitted that I admired her. I never said she was a vulgar
flirt; her mother was an absolutely scientific one. Heaven knows I
admired that! It's a nice point, however, how much one is hound in
honour not to warn a young friend against a dangerous woman because one
also has relations of civility with the lady."
"In such a case," said Stanmer, "I would break off my relations."
I looked at him, and I think I laughed.
"Are you jealous of me, by chance?"
He shook his head emphatically.
"Not in the least; I like to see you there, because your conduct
contradicts your words."
"I have always said that the Countess is fascinating."
"Otherwise," said Stanmer, "in the case you speak of I would give the
lady notice."
"Give her notice?"
"Mention to her that you regard her with suspicion, and that you propose
to do your best to rescue a simple-minded youth from her wiles. That
would be more loyal." And he began to laugh again.
It is not the first time he has laughed at me; but I have never minded
it, because I have always understood it.
"Is that what you recommend me to say to the Countess?" I asked.
"Recommend you!" he exclaimed, laughing again; "I recommend nothing. I
may be the victim to be rescued, but I am at least not a partner to the
conspiracy.
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