Page:Anthony Hope - The Dolly Dialogues.djvu/46

This page has been validated.
34
THE DOLLY DIALOGUES.

'Is it any use trying to remember all their names?' I asked in a soothing tone. 'No doubt he's forgotten them by now—just as you've forgotten the others.'

'And the Dowager told me that he had never had an attachment before.'

'Oh, if the Dowager said that! Of course, the Dowager would know!'

'Don't be so silly, for goodness' sake! Are you going?'

'Certainly I am. It might annoy Archie to find me here when he wants to talk to you.'

'Well, I want to talk to him.'

'Of course you won't repeat what I've——'

'I shall find out for myself,' she said.

'Good-bye. I hope I've removed all your troubles.'

'Oh, yes, thank you. I know what to do now, Mr. Carter.'

'Always send for me if you're in any trouble. I have some exp——'

'Good-bye, Mr. Carter.'

'Good-bye, Lady Mickleham. And remember that Archie, like you——'

'Yes, yes; I know. Must you go?'

'I'm afraid I must. I've enjoyed our talk so——'

'There's Archie's step.'

I left the room. On the stairs I met Archie. I shook hands sympathetically. I was sorry for Archie. But in great causes the individual cannot be considered. I had done my duty to my sex.