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."