He hears her stirring. Does she want something ?

" Boogles ? "

Good Lord ! She is talking in her sleep. They haven't used that name for years.

" Boogles. Are you awake ? "

" Yes, do you want anything ? "

" Oh, I'm going to be a bother. I'm so sorry. Do you mind ? There's a wretched mosquito inside my net—I can hear him singing. Would you catch him ? I don't want to move because of my heart."

" No, don't move. Stay where you are." He switches on the light, lifts the net. " Where is the little beggar ? Have you spotted him ? "

" Yes, there, over by the corner. Oh, I do feel such a fiend to have dragged you out of bed. Do you mind dreadfully ? "

" No, of course not." For a moment he hovers in his blue and white pyjamas. Then, " got him," he said.

" Oh, good. Was he a juicy one ? "

" Beastly." He went over to the washstand and dipped his fingers in water. " Are you all right now ? Shall I switch off the light ? "

" Yes, please. No. Boogles ! Come back here page 193 a moment. Sit down by me. Give me your hand." She turns his signet ring. " Why weren't you asleep ? Boogles, listen. Come closer. I sometimes wonder—do you mind awfully being out here with me ? "

He bends down. He kisses her. He tucks her in, he smoothes the pillow.

" Rot! " he whispers.