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 ; and I'm going to run it in my own way. If you interfere by as much as a word, Hilary, I clear straight out of this studio. If I do, Alf or no Alf, you'll be married to Ermyntrude on Wednesday fortnight."

He spoke in a tone of dreadful, impressive certainty.

Hilary Vance shivered and said in a milder voice, "All right, James, all right. You do just as you like; you're the diplomatist."

Mr. James asked Pollyooly several questions about the conversation between the lovers. Then there came a knocking at the front door; and he sent her to admit Ermyntrude.

The deceitful fair one entered with her best forlorn air, her handkerchief in her hand, ready for instant use.

"Well, Ermyntrude?" said Mr. James in a tone of polite inquiry.

"I've come for 'is answer—'is definite answer," said Ermyntrude in a very somber tone, nodding toward Hilary Vance.

"Oh, we thought you might have made other arrangements," said Mr. James.