―You were making tea, Stephen said, and I went across the landing to get more hot water. Your mother and some visitor came out of the drawing room. She asked you who was in your room.

―Yes? Buck Mulligan said. What did I say? I forget.

―You said, Stephen answered, O, it’s only Dedalus whose mother is beastly dead.

A flush which made him seem younger and more engaging rose to Buck Mulligan’s cheek.

―Did I say that? he asked. Well? What harm is that?

He shook his constraint from him nervously.