The mise en scene was perfect, from the thoughtful droop of the head to the innocent display of slipper.
"I wonder why you think that of me," he replied.
"One cannot help perceiving that which is obvious." "While that which is purposely made obvious serves to conceal that which may exist behind it," replied the stout man.
Etta paused to reflect over this.

Was Steinmetz going to make love to her?
She was not an inexperienced girl, and knew that there was nothing impossible or even improbable in the thought.

She wondered what Karl Steinmetz must have been like when he was a young man.

He had a deft way even now of planting a double entendre when he took the trouble.

How could she know that his manner was always easiest, his attitude always politest, toward the women whom he despised.