"Miss Nell don't want to break the string; she just wants it lengthened."
Madam turned upon him fiercely.
"See here, young man. You think I don't know what you are up to; but, remember, I wasn't born yesterday. If Eleanor has sent you up here to talk this New York stuff——"
"She hasn't; I came of my own accord."
"Well, you needn't think just because I've shown you a few favors that you can meddle in family affairs. It's not the first time you've attended to other people's business."
Her fingers were working nervously and her eyes beginning to twitch. She made Quin think of Minerva when Mr. Bangs came into the office.
"I bet there's one time you are glad I meddled," he said with easy good humor. "You might have been walking on a peg-stick, Queen Vic, if I hadn't butted in. Do you have to use your crutches now?"
"Crutches! I should say not. I don't even use a cane. See here!"
She rose and, steadying herself, walked slowly and painfully to the door and back.
"Bully for you!" said Quin, helping her back into the chair. "Now what were we talking about?"