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 itself. I had some hopes when your father assumed a firm attitude, but'

'Mother was such a dear,' interrupted Mrs. Hilary.

'Just so. She gave away the whole situation. Then I did trust that Hilary would lose his place, or develop an old flame, or do something just a little interesting.'

'It was a perfect time,' said Mrs. Hilary.

'I wonder why in the world you told me about it,' I pursued.

'I don't know why I did,' said Mrs. Hilary dreamily.

'The only possible excuse for an engagement like that,' I observed, 'is to be found in intense post-nuptial unhappiness.'

Hilary rose, and advanced towards his wife.

'Your embroidery's falling on the floor,' said he.

'Not a bit of it,' said I.

'Yes, it is,' he persisted; and he picked it up and gave it to her. Miss Phyllis smiled delightedly. Hilary had squeezed his wife's hand.

'Then we don't excuse it,' said he.

I took out my watch. I was not finding much entertainment.

'Surely it's quite early, old man?' said Hilary.

'It's nearly eleven. We've spent half-an-hour on the thing,' said I peevishly, holding out my hand to my hostess.

'Oh, are you going? Good-night, Mr. Carter.'