tingle with fine hate for her. He leaned far out of the boat, reaching down into the water. He could feel his position was ridiculous, his loins exposed behind him.

‘It is of no importance,’ came the strong, clanging voice of Gudrun. She seemed to touch him. But he reached further, the boat swayed violently. Hermione, however, remained unperturbed. He grasped the book, under the water, and brought it up, dripping.

‘I’m so dreadfully sorry — dreadfully sorry,’ repeated Hermione. ‘I’m afraid it was all my fault.’

‘It’s of no importance — really, I assure you — it doesn’t matter in the least,’ said Gudrun loudly, with emphasis, her face flushed scarlet.