Or it may be merely a preference for his own society.

Anyway, it is no business of ours." Then, swiftly softening the suggestion of reproof contained in his last sentence, he added: "Don't encourage me to gossip, Sara.

When a man's tied by the leg, as I am, it's all he can do to curb a tendency towards tattling village scandal like some garrulous old woman." It was evident that the presence of visitors was inflicting a considerable strain on Herrick's endurance, and, as though by common consent, the little party broke up shortly after tea.
Molly expressed her intention of accompanying Mrs.Maynard back to Greenacres--the beautiful house which the latter had had built to her own design, overlooking the bay--in order to inspect the pretty widow's recent purchase of a new motor-car.
Trent turned to Sara with a smile.
"Then it devolves on me to see you safely home, Miss Tennant, may I ?" She nodded permission, and they set off through the high-hedged lane, Sara hurrying along at top speed.
For a few minutes Trent strode beside her in silence.

Then: "Are you catching a train ?" he inquired mildly.

"Or is it only that you want to be rid of my company in the shortest possible time ?" She coloured, moderating her pace with an effort.