'Don't repeat my words, Edith. I won't have it! Certainly I was
deceived. I thought she was a fitting companion for you--I
_thought_ so.'

'Oh, Bruce, really! Where's the harm? Perhaps they're engaged; and if
they are I think it is charming. Cecil is such a nice, amusing,
good-looking boy, and--'

'I formed my opinion of Reeve some time ago.'

'You only met him once.'

'Once is more than enough for me to form a judgement of anyone. He is
absolutely unworthy of her. But her conduct I regard as infinitely
worse. I always imagined she was respectably brought up--a lady!'

'Good gracious! Anyone can see that! She's the most charming girl in the
world.'

'_Outwardly_, no doubt, she seems all right. But now you see what she
is.'

He paused to relight his cigarette, which had gone out, and continued:
'Such behaviour would be dreadful enough in private, but in public! Do
you think of the example?'

'The example to Archie, do you mean?'

'Don't laugh, Edith. This is no matter for laughing. Certainly to
Archie--to anyone. Now I've only one thing to say.'