“I said to-night, didn’t I?” she retorted in dangerous tones.
“I know, Erna, but I can’t see you to-night. Make it to-morrow night, an’ we’ll talk it over, long’s you won’t say now. Make it to-morrow night! An’ I’ll spend the whole evenin’ with you.”
Erna had turned her back on him. Jimmy came closer, but she walked away, while he followed her, foolishly continuing to apologize and to cajole her. Unhappily, Jimmy’s suit was interrupted. Another man came into the dining room: Eric Nielsen.
Glances passed between them. Nielsen went over to the farthermost corner, took off his hat and coat and sat down. Jimmy looked at Erna on the sly, but she paid no attention to him. The young fighter did not stay for breakfast. He left the room without another word. And Erna smiled secretly.
Nielsen, always a lover of other’s secrets, had digested most of the scene. But he was still a diplomat. Consequently, he said nothing and permitted Erna to come over for his order. She looked nervous and uncertain.
“What’s new?” he asked pleasantly.
“Nothin’.”
“Still ham and eggs and the old program?”
She smiled slightly. “Yes!”
He ordered some eggs, toast and a cup of black coffee and explained: “I need some energy for work this morning. I feel dopy.”