They haven't a whisper on me. I'm glad enough of
an opportunity to talk to a man."
"If you lose your temper--" Howat commenced, but Mariana impatiently
interrupted him. "Why shouldn't Jim lose his temper?" she demanded. "I
would. Personally, I'd be glad if he did, although it mightn't be
fortunate for Kingsfrere. He's a good deal of a dumpling. But I will be
furious if you look guilty. Tell them we're mad about each other and
that I am waiting for the smallest encouragement to go with you."
Howat Penny left Mariana at the door, and went in with Polder. Provost
was seated, with an open paper; Kingsfrere studying the photograph of
Scalchi. "This," said Howat generally, "is my guest, James Polder."
Peter Provost extended his square, powerful hand; but the other, Jannan,
made no movement. "Well?" Polder demanded aggressively. Howat Penny
proceeded through the room to the porch, where he met Mariana. They
walked to the further end and found chairs. "What makes me sick,"
Mariana proceeded, "is the way men calmly take everything into their own
hands; as if women were still tied up, naughty bundles. Jim will have
all the fun, and he has only said 'no' in horrified tones."
Again he could think of no adequate reply. He listened in vain for the
sound of raised voices within.
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