Shall we walk this way ?' They went along the path by the river.

Widdowson exhibited none of the artifices of gallantry practised by men who are in the habit of picking up an acquaintance with shop-girls.

His smile did not return; an extreme sobriety characterized his manner and speech; for the most part he kept his eyes on the ground, and when silent he had the look of one who inwardly debates a grave question.
'Have you been into the country ?' was one of his first inquiries.
'No.

I spent the morning with my sisters, and in the afternoon I had to see a lady in Chelsea.' 'Your sisters are older than yourself ?' 'Yes, some years older.' 'Is it long since you went to live apart from them ?' 'We have never had a home of our own since I was quite a child.' And, after a moment's hesitation, she went on to give a brief account of her history.

Widdowson listened with the closest attention, his lips twitching now and then, his eyes half closed.