"I had no idea you were not on good terms.

I thought you were! It's very awkward." Without coquetry and unconsciously she raised her blue eyes under her lids until the clear pupils coyly and softly hid themselves in the corners of the brown lashes, and added, "You have both been so kind to me." "Perhaps that is the reason," said Poindexter, gravely.

But Mrs.Tucker refused to accept the suggestion with equal gravity, and began to laugh.
The laugh, which was at first frank, spontaneous, and almost child-like, was becoming hysterical and nervous as she went on, until it was suddenly checked by Poindexter.
"I have had no difficulties with Don Jose Santierra," he said, somewhat coldly ignoring her hilarity, "but perhaps he is not inclined to be as polite to the friend of the husband as he is to the wife." "Mr.Poindexter!" said Mrs.Tucker quickly, her face becoming pale again.
"I beg your pardon!" said Poindexter, flushing; "but--" "You want to say," she interrupted coolly, "that you are not friends, I see.

Is that the reason why you have avoided this house ?" she continued gently.
"I thought I could be of more service to you elsewhere," he replied evasively.

"I have been lately following up a certain clue rather closely.