Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/99

 I shall just die! Vera cackled. Did you hear what that man said?

Yes, I heard. Paul smiled.

An exhibition of trained seals followed the two comedians. These incipient coats caught rubber balls on their noses, played musical instruments, shot off revolvers, and waved American flags. After each of these feats they barked excitedly until their trainer, a young woman in high, white, Russian boots and a blue satin costume, edged around the bottom with polar bear fur, dropped her whip to toss them fish, which they caught in the air and devoured edaciously.

O, Paul, I'm having such a good time, Vera declared. Let's go out together oftener.

Whenever you like, Vera. . . . Paul slowly withdrew his hand from the grasp of her palm. . . I think that seal is about to ride a bicycle.

Paul, Vera begged, and her manner had become coy and whimpering, please promise me something.

What is it, Vera?

Promise me you won't go to work.

I can't do that, Vera.

I don't think it's fair to me, Paul. Really, I don't. People will take it as a reflection on the way I treat you. I've done everything I could for you, Paul, but the cats will say you're not satisfied, that you want more. . . . I'll give you more, she avowed wildly, anything you want!