Christmas, when he had no occupation for his idle hands, he had
certainly spent many enjoyable hours at Number 5, Golfney Place, and it
had been necessary on more than one occasion to remind himself that
discretion was the better part of valour.

If it had not been for Carrissima, the temptation to meet Bridget's
apparently "coming-on disposition" half way would have become more
acute, and without any idea of a closer relationship, he might
perchance have gone farther over night than he would have thought
desirable the next morning.

Without being a coxcomb, Mark Driver, during those evening interviews,
had been inclined to think that this was precisely what Bridget
desired; but then again, he reasoned himself into the opinion that she
must be entirely innocent of any such idea, which was due, rather, to
his own less well-ordered imagination. And, besides, there was
Carrissima!

"Goodness knows," he answered at last. "I came here this afternoon to
check Lawrence's opinion by your own."

Now it was Carrissima's turn to hesitate. She wished to play the game
and not for the world would she attempt to belittle Bridget if Mark
desired to exalt her. On the other hand any reluctance to express a
candid opinion might appear suspicious in his eyes!

"Oh well," she said, "there are certain facts which can't be disputed.
You must draw your own conclusions. Bridget lets father take her to
the play; to all sorts of places; she receives him every day in the
week, and he buys her presents. On the few occasions when I have seen