`` Why do n't you ask me to go yourself ? '' said Violet audaciously . Spencer smiled again . `` Have I failed in politeness by not doing so ? I fear you would find me an insufferably dull companion . '' So he was not going to ask her after all . Violet felt piqued . She was also conscious of a sensation very near akin to disappointment . She looked across at Madison . How trim and dapper he was ! `` I hate a bandbox man , '' she said to herself . Spencer meanwhile had picked up one of Mrs. Hill 's novels from the stand beside him . '' Fools of Habit , '' he said , glancing at the cover . `` I see it is making quite a sensation down east . I suppose you 've read it ? '' `` Yes . It is very frivolous and clever -- all froth but delightful froth . Did you like it ? '' Spencer balanced the novel reflectively on his slender brown hand . `` Well , yes , rather .
But I do n't care for XXXXX as a rule .
Mrs. Violet companion disappointment hand man novels politeness sensation stand