Oh, tactless idiot! Now they would never be able to walk in the garden without a suspicion that he was observing them.
He all but resolved to pack a travelling-bag and leave home at once.

It seemed impossible to face Irene at luncheon.
When the bell rang, he stole, slunk, downstairs.

Scarcely had he entered the dining-room, when he began an apology; after all, he could not go this afternoon; he must work; the sky had tempted him, but---- "Mr.Otway," said Irene, regarding him with mock sternness, "we don't allow that kind of thing.

It is shameful vacillation--I love a long word--What's the other word I was trying for ?--still longer--I mean, tergiversation! it comes from _tergum_ and _verso_, and means turning the back.

It is rude to turn your back on ladies." Piers would have liked to fall at her feet, in his voiceless gratitude.
She had rescued him from his shame, had put an end to all awkwardness, and, instead of merely permitting, had invited his company.
"That decides it, Miss Derwent.