Page:Anthony Hope - The Dolly Dialogues.djvu/119

 glorious House Opposite! If only I might dwell for ever in the House Opposite!'

'I haven't the least notion what you mean,' remarked Mrs. Hilary stiffly. 'I suppose it's something silly—or worse.'

I looked at her in some puzzle.

'Have you no longing for the House Opposite?' I asked.

Mrs. Hilary looked at me. Her eyes ceased to be absolutely blank. She put her arm through Hilary's and answered gently,—

'I don't want the House Opposite.'

'Ah,' said I, giving my hat a brush, 'but maybe you remember the House—when it was Opposite?'

Mrs. Hilary, one arm still in Hilary's, gave me her hand.

She blushed and smiled.

'Well,' said she, 'it was your fault; so I won't scold Phyllis.'

'No, don't, my dear,' said Hilary, with a laugh.

As for me, I went downstairs, and, in absence of mind, bade my cabman drive to the House Opposite. But I have never got there.