Each tried to put the
other at ease, more by looks than words. Edith saw it would worry him to
make conversation. They knew each other well enough to exchange ideas
without words.
He had something to say and she would not postpone it. That would
irritate him.
'There,' said Aylmer, giving a little push to the table. 'Do you want
any more tea?'
'No, thanks.'
'Well--do you mind coming a little nearer?'
She lifted the little table, put it farther behind his chair, placed the
arm-chair closer to him by the fire, and sat down again. He looked at
her for some time with a serious expression. Then he said, rather
abruptly and unexpectedly:
'What a jolly hat!'
'Oh, I _am_ glad you like it!' exclaimed Edith. 'I was afraid you'd hate
it.'
For the first time they were talking in their old tone, she reflected.
'No, I like it--I love it.' He lowered his voice to say this.
'I'm glad,' she repeated.
'And I love you,' said Aylmer as abruptly, and in a still lower voice.
She didn't answer.
'Look here, Edith. I want to ask you something.'
'Yes.'
He seemed to have some difficulty in speaking. He was agitated.
'Have you forgotten me?'
'You can see I haven't, or I wouldn't be here,' she answered.
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