They walked back into Holborn, and Hilliard, talking merely of
trifles, led the way to a great hall, where some scores of people
were already dining. He selected a nook which gave assurance of
privacy, sketched to the waiter a modest but carefully chosen
repast, and from his seat on the opposite side of the table laughed
silently at Eve as she leaned back on the plush cushions. In no way
disconcerted by the show of luxury about her, Eve seemed to be
reflecting, not without enjoyment.

"You would rather be here than going home in the Camden Town 'bus?"

"Of course."

"That's what I like in you. You have courage to tell the truth. When
you said that you couldn't come, it was what you really thought Now
that you have learnt your mistake, you confess it."

"I couldn't have done it if I hadn't made up my mind that it was all
the same, whether I came or refused."

"All the same to you. Yes; I'm quite willing that you should think
it so. It puts me at my ease. I have nothing to reproach myself
with. Ah, but how good it is to sit here and talk!"

"Don't you know anyone else who would come with you? Haven't you
made any friends?"

"Not one. You and Miss Ringrose are the only persons I know in
London."