CHAPTER XVII 226
it , I perceived my sandal was loose ; I stopped to tie it , kneeling down for that purpose on the mat at the foot of the staircase . I heard the dining-room door unclose ; a gentleman came out ; rising hastily , I stood face to face with him : it was Mr . Rochester .
" How do you do ?" he asked . " I am very well , sir ." " Why did you not come and speak to me in the room ?"
I thought I might have retorted the question on him who put it : but I would not take that freedom . I answered -
" I did not wish to disturb you , as you seemed engaged , sir ." " What have you been doing during my absence ?" " Nothing particular ; teaching Adele as usual ."
" And getting a good deal paler than you were -- as I saw at first sight . What is the matter ?"
" Nothing at all , sir ." " Did you take any cold that night you half drowned me ?" " Not the least ." " Return to the drawing-room : you are deserting too early ." " I am tired , sir ." He looked at me for a minute . " And a little depressed ," he said . " What about ? Tell me ."