"If you will permit me, I will put it away." Grooton brought in tea.

The Prince was politely curious as to the subject matter of those closely written sheets of paper.
"You are perhaps interested in literature, Mr.Ducaine," he remarked.
"Immensely," I answered, waving my hand towards my bookshelves.
"But you yourself--you no doubt write ?" "Oh, one tries," I answered, pouring out the tea.
"It may be permitted then to wish you success," he remarked dryly.
"You are very good," I answered.
Lady Angela calmly interposed.

The Prince ate buttered toast and drank tea with a bland affectation of enjoyment.

They rose almost immediately afterwards.
"You are coming up to the house this evening, Mr.Ducaine ?" Lady Angela asked.
"I am due there now," I answered.

"If you will allow me, I will walk back with you." The Prince touched my arm as Lady Angela passed out before us.
"I am anxious, Mr.Ducaine," he said, looking me in the face, "for a few minutes' private conversation with you.