'Yes. He's attached to her, fond of her. She's utterly indifferent about
him, so he's piqued. So he thinks that's being in love.'

'Then why does he try to deceive me and flirt with me at all?'

'He doesn't. You really attract him; you're suited to him physically and
socially, perhaps mentally too. The suitability is so obvious that he
doesn't like it. It's his feeling for you that he fights against, and
especially because he sees you care for him.'

'I was horrid enough to him today! I told him never to call here again.'

'To show your indifference?'

'I made him understand that I wanted no more of his silly flirtation,'
said Hyacinth, still tearful.

'If you _really_ made him think that, everything will be all right.'

'Really, Anne, you're clever. I think I shall take your advice.'

Anne gave a queer laugh.

'I didn't know I'd given any, but I will. Whatever he does now, leave
him alone!'

'I should think so! Then why did you tell me the other day to keep on
hammering?'

'I was quite right the other day.'