The breaks became more numerous and lasted longer.

Condy began to wonder if he was boring her.

No sooner had the suspicion entered his head than it hardened into a certainty, and at once what little fluency and freshness he yet retained forsook him on the spot.

What made matters worse was his recollection of other evenings that of late he had failed in precisely the same manner.

Even while he struggled to save the situation Condy was wondering if they two were talked out--if they had lost charm for each other.