Birkin, who knew her well, saw that she intended to discount his existence.
'Will you take what you want from the sideboard ?' said Alexander, in a voice slightly suggesting disapprobation.

'I hope the things aren't cold.

Oh no! Do you mind putting out the flame under the chafingdish, Rupert?
Thank you.' Even Alexander was rather authoritative where Hermione was cool.

He took his tone from her, inevitably.

Birkin sat down and looked at the table.