‘I am surprised to find you still down here. Miss Kenton,’ I said as I approached. ‘Mr Stevens, I was very foolish earlier on.’ ‘Excuse me. Miss Kenton, but I have no time to talk just now.’ ‘Mr Stevens, you mustn’t take anything I said earlier to heart. I was simply being foolish.’ ‘I have not taken anything you have said to heart, Miss Kenton. In fact, I cannot recall what it is you might be referring to. Events of great importance are unfolding upstairs and I can hardly stop to exchange pleasantries with you. I would suggest you retire for the night.’
