"I've had rather a rough time since I last saw you."

"I can well believe it to look at you. Why didn't you write?"

"I didn't like to. It's good of you to do what you've done."

Mr Devitt appeared to think for a few moments before saying:

"I'm sorry I can't do more; but one isn't always in a position to do
exactly what one would like."

"Quite so," assented the girl.

More was said to the same effect, although Mavis could not rid
herself of the impression that he was patronising her. A further
thing that prejudiced her against Devitt was his absence of self-
possession. While speaking, he gesticulated, moved his limbs, and
seemed incapable of keeping still.

"I'll pay you back the three pounds you so kindly sent me,
gradually," said Mavis presently.

"Wouldn't hear of it; nothin' to me; only too happy to oblige you,"
declared Devitt, showing by his manner that he considered the
interview at an end.

As she walked towards the door, he said:

"By the way, where are you stayin'?"