Nourse was to do the talking.

That had been arranged ahead, at a meeting of Nourse and the two wives.

But all at once in a panic now, Ethel knew that Nourse would bungle it.

Why had she entrusted so much to this man?
Had he ever shown tact in his whole life?
And why so soon?
Oh, it had been rash! The evening had passed so gorgeously.

Why not have waited and had other evenings to pave the way and make it sure! She tried to signal to Nourse to stop him, but he could or would not hear! Now he was getting ready to speak.
"Well," he said, rising and turning on Ethel a curious smile, "I guess it's time I was going home." She stared at him in blank relief.