Page:Pleased to Meet You (1927).pdf/57

 "When Herriot was premier in France the same problem arose. You remember what excellent political capital he made of his pipe and his shirtsleeves. Geneva will understand perfectly. In fact, Herr President, I was about to say, I think that if anything your present outfit is even a little unnecessarily conventional. Also, I was observing your trousers—perhaps you would do me the favour of standing a moment."

The President rose, and Cointreau diligently examined the garments in various perspectives.

"They have their virtues, I can quite see," he said judicially. "The cut is eminently republican. No one, I think, would suspect you of royalist ambitions so long as you wear them. Allow me, without being too intimate—the seat may be said to be roomy, meritorious in a sedentary garment."

Nyla broke into a delightful gust of laughter.

"Daddy thought that by tightening his suspenders a bit he could buck them up. Let's have a try."

"I'm afraid it's hopeless," said Cointreau.