At
the end of one of them Madge's brother spoke to Joan in a tone more of
sorrow than of anger.
"Hardly the sort of anecdote that a truly noble and high-minded young
woman would have received with laughter," he commented.
"Did I laugh?" said Joan.
"Your having done so unconsciously only makes the matter worse," observed
Mr. Singleton. "I had hoped it emanated from politeness, not enjoyment."
"Don't tease her," said Madge. "She's having an evening off."
Joan and the Singletons were the last to go. They promised to show Mr.
Halliday a short cut to his hotel in Holborn.
"Have you thanked Miss Lessing for a pleasant evening?" asked Mr.
Singleton, turning to Mr. Halliday.
He laughed and put his arm round her. "Poor little woman," he said.
"You're looking so tired. It was jolly at the end." He kissed her.
He had passed through the swing doors; and they were standing on the
pavement waiting for Joan's bus.
"Why did we all like him?" asked Joan. "Even Miss Lavery. There's
nothing extraordinary about him."
"Oh yes there is," said Madge.
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