She would be proof against a dozen monsters." He cast her a glance with the words that made her aware of a certain not very abstruse meaning behind them.

Olga's cheeks burned again.

Did he know, then?
Had he guessed why Violet was in the house?
Was that the reason of his curious vigilance, his guarded acceptance of her favours?
She was possessed by an almost overwhelming desire to know, and yet no words could she find in which to ask.
"Well ?" said Max, pausing in the act of opening the door.

"You were going to say--" She raised her eyes with a conscious effort, and nerved herself to speak.
"Max," she said desperately, "please don't mind my asking! It isn't from idle curiosity.

Do you like her ?" She saw the rough red brows go up, and swiftly repented her temerity.