In the scene described, Mr. Beach embodies a well-mannered character who restrains his curiosity, yet his expressive eyebrows seemingly betray his thoughts, prompting questions without uttering a word. Despite this silent confrontation, Ashe consciously opts to reject the silent pressure to divulge information. His determination not to be swayed by Beach's unspoken communication highlights a tension between propriety and the urge to conceal his own secrets.
Ashe's focus on another part of the room reflects his defiance against being drawn into a confession. The humor lies in the exaggerated expression of Beach's eyebrows, which serve as a comedic device, emphasizing the internal struggle Ashe faces. Through this interaction, Wodehouse cleverly illustrates the social dynamics at play, where non-verbal cues can be as powerful as spoken words, leading to a battle of wills marked by wit and subtlety.