‘No indeed,’ said Hermione. ‘No, indeed! But I think you are vital and young — it isn’t a question of years, or even of experience — it is almost a question of race. Rupert is race-old, he comes of an old race — and you seem to me so young, you come of a young, inexperienced race.’

‘Do I!’ said Ursula. ‘But I think he is awfully young, on one side.’

‘Yes, perhaps childish in many respects. Nevertheless — ’

They both lapsed into silence. Ursula was filled with deep resentment and a touch of hopelessness. ‘It isn’t true,’ she said to herself, silently addressing her adversary. ‘It isn’t true. And it is YOU who want a physically strong,