[--interference? And just when things were proceeding so interestingly...

She turns to him with a slight touch of impatience, noting the effect he's had on the other ladies. He'll understand if she adopts a bit of a Tone with him, she imagines. (If not, she can explain it away.)]

If you've such manners, one wonders why you bothered at all.

[A thin-lipped smile that fades quickly.]

It must be a matter of some urgency. Beyond, I'd hope, announcing your presence here as well.