Page:Anthony Hope - The Dolly Dialogues.djvu/138

 Sighing once again, I held out my hand to Dolly.

'Are you doing anything this evening?' she asked.

'That depends on what I'm asked to do,' said I cautiously.

'Well, Archie's going to be at the House, and I thought you might take me to the Phaetons' party. It's quite a long drive—a horribly long drive, Mr. Carter.'

I stood for a moment considering this proposal.

'I don't think,' said I, 'that it would be proper.'

'Why, Archie suggested it! You're making an excuse. You know you are!' and Lady Mickleham looked very indignant. 'As if,' she added scornfully, 'you cared about what was proper!'

I dropped into a chair, and said, in a confidential tone, 'I don't care a pin. It was a mere excuse. I don't want to come.'

'You're very rude, indeed. Many women would never speak to you again.'

'They would,' said I, 'all do just as you will.'

'And what's that, Mr. Carter?'

'Ask me again on the first opportunity.'

'Why won't you come?' said Dolly, waiving this question.

I bent forward, holding my hat in my left hand, and sawing the air with my right forefinger.