Page:The Story of the Gadsbys - Kipling (1888).djvu/17

 —Yes, I promise. What did she say?

—That—that being kissed (with a rush) with a man who didn't wax his moustache was—like eating an egg without salt.

(at her full height, with crushing scorn).—May Olger is a horrid, nasty Thing, and you can tell her I said so. I'm glad she doesn't belong to my set—I must go and feed this man! Do I look presentable?

—Yes, perfectly. Be quick and hand him over to your Mother, and then we can talk. I shall listen at the door to hear what you say to him.

—'Sure I don't care. I'm not afraid of Captain Gadsby!

''In proof of this swings into the drawing-room with a mannish stride followed by two short steps, which produces the effect of a restive horse entering. Misses Captain Gadsby, who is sitting in the shadow of the window-curtain, and gazes round helplessly''.

(aside).—The filly, by Jove! Must ha' picked up that action from the sire. (Aloud, rising.) Good evening, Miss Threegan.

(conscious that she is flushing).—Good evening, Captain Gadsby. Mamma told me to say that she will be ready in a few minutes. Won't you have some tea? (Aside.) I hope Mamma will be quick. What am I to say to the creature? (Aloud and abruptly.) Milk and sugar?

—No sugar, tha-anks, and very little milk. Ha—Hmmm.

(aside).—If he's going to do that, I'm lost. I shall laugh. I know I shall!

(pulling at his moustache and watching it sideways down his nose).—Ha—Hmmm. (Aside.) Wonder what the little beast can talk about. 'Must make a shot at it.

(aside).—Oh, this is agonizing. I must say something.

.—Have you been ?