But his annoyance and excitement had not disappeared; quite enough remained to cover up any such secondary and purely exoteric feeling as surprise.

But as she spoke he never took his eyes off her; and I made a mental note that I would find some early opportunity of investigating the cause of his surprise.

She began with an apology which quite smoothed down his ruffled feelings: "Of course, had my Father been well you would not have been kept waiting.

Indeed, had not I been on duty in the sick-room when you called the first time, I should have seen you at once.

Now will you kindly tell me what is the matter which so presses ?" He looked at me and hesitated.