It was not even the way that a gentleman out of his teens should speak to a lady on such a subject.

He knew this as well as she did and was secretly ashamed of himself.

But the truth must out: though Geoffrey did not admit it even to himself he was bitterly and profoundly jealous, and jealous people have no manners.

Beatrice could not, however, be expected to know this, and naturally grew angry.
"I do not quite understand what you are talking about, Mr.Bingham," she said, putting on her most dignified air, and Beatrice could look rather alarming.

"You have picked up a piece of unfounded gossip and now you take advantage of it to laugh at me, and to say rude things of Mr.
Davies.