I looked at him, and I think I laughed.

"Are you jealous of me, by chance?"

He shook his head emphatically.

"Not in the least; I like to see you there, because your conduct
contradicts your words."

"I have always said that the Countess is fascinating."

"Otherwise," said Stanmer, "in the case you speak of I would give the
lady notice."

"Give her notice?"

"Mention to her that you regard her with suspicion, and that you propose
to do your best to rescue a simple-minded youth from her wiles. That
would be more loyal." And he began to laugh again.

It is not the first time he has laughed at me; but I have never minded
it, because I have always understood it.

"Is that what you recommend me to say to the Countess?" I asked.

"Recommend you!" he exclaimed, laughing again; "I recommend nothing. I
may be the victim to be rescued, but I am at least not a partner to the
conspiracy. Besides," he added in a moment, "the Countess knows your
state of mind."