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 lip, which had grown pale, quivered with an agitation he was powerless to conceal.

“I can only suggest again that you have your remedy,” said Vermont in a cold voice.

“But I have already told you my objection to that method. I would suggest—respectfully suggest—that my wife return to her duties.”

“That I will never do, I swear it,” cried Andromeda vehemently. “I would rather die first."

“No, my dear Irene, your sort don’t die for so little provocation. ‘They prefer to live—and enjoy themselves. Perhaps, Mr. Vermont, you are not aware that all our difficulties have arisen through a mistaken sense of what enjoyment really means? My wife and I hold different opinions on this subject. Hence a multiplicity of misunderstandings. But for the life of me I cannot conceive why I take the trouble to enter into these explanations. It seems to me a matter with which you have no concern whatever. I must confess my patience surprises me. I did not think I had such command of any one virtue. Singular perversity of nature. But the time is flying. Are you ready, Irene?”