I was beginning to feel in holiday mood, for I was sure that I had struck on an arrangement that would tide us over at least a fortnight.
I went out to the kitchen.
“Minerva,” said I, “Mrs. Vernon would like to speak to you.”
I then went back to Ethel and said, “I have asked Minerva to come. When she comes, tell her to send James. We will do this thing in style while we are about it.”
Minerva came in, her face all smiles.
“Minerva, ask your friend James to come out,” said Ethel. “Mr. Vernon wishes to speak to him.”
“That’s it! That’s style!” said I, as soon as Minerva had gone. “Now is our dignity preserved, and James feels that he has fallen among people who know what’s what. Do you want to be present at this interview?”
Ethel decided that she did not, and went into the parlour as James came out of the kitchen.
“Did you want to speak to me, sir?” said James respectfully.
“Yes, James. What is your last name?”