Then abruptly, lightly, he resumed his normal, half-quizzing demeanour.

"Doubtless I weary you," he said.

"But you mustn't run away with the idea that I am in love because I feel myself inspired.

It may sound callous to you, but if Miss Columbine were to lose her exquisite beauty (which heaven forbid!) I should never voluntarily look upon her again.

That I take it, is the test of love, which, we are told, is blind to all defects." He ceased to speak, and carelessly, yet with obvious enjoyment, he sent forth another cloud of smoke into the crystal air of the morning.
He was not looking at Rufus.