For when it ended all would be over; he might not hold her in his arms any more, he might not enjoy her loveliness in any way, because he was married, and she was dedicated to John. She was too good for John. But because he was married he must stand aside and see her sacrificed to John or to somebody like John. He must not interfere with that. But he would like to interfere. He would like to kiss her at the end of the dance.

The dance was finished at last, and while they sat together afterwards, hot and exhausted, Muriel said suddenly, “What’s all this about Mr. Egerton⁠—and⁠—that maid of yours⁠—? There are some horrid stories going round⁠— Mrs. Vincent⁠—Mother said she wouldn’t listen to any of them.”

Stephen was silent for a little. Then he said, in a doubtful, deliberate manner: