After all, the number of
people who count in London is very small. And we've got nearly all of
them. You've no idea--"
"I won't change from Wednesday week," said Edward Henry. This defiance
of her put him into an extremely agitated felicity.
"Now, my dear Mr. Machin--"
He was acutely aware of the charm she was exerting, and yet he
discovered that he could easily withstand it.
"Now, my dear Miss April, please don't try to take advantage of your
beauty!"
She sat up. She was apparently measuring herself and him.
"Then you won't change the day, truly?" Her urbanity was in no wise
impaired.
"I won't," he laughed lightly. "I daresay you aren't used to people
like me, Miss April."
(She might get the better of Seven Sachs, but not of him, Edward Henry
Machin from the Five Towns!)
"Marrier!" said he, suddenly, with a bluff, humorous downrightness,
"you know you're in a very awkward position here, and you know you've
got to see Alloyd for me before six o'clock. Be off with you. I will
be responsible for Miss April."
("I'll show these Londoners!" he said to himself. "It's simple enough
when you once get into it.")
And he did in fact succeed in dismissing Mr. Marrier, after the latter
had talked Azure business with Miss April for a couple of minutes.
"I must go too," said Elsie, imperturbable, impenetrable.
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