“Because, if they’re to be happy, the woman should get what he wants, while the man should please her.”
Finger to exquisite lip, Eleanor regarded her swain.
“Yes, I’ve got that,” said the latter. “It’s rather subtle, but——”
“It’s love,” said Madge. “That’s all. If Nell gets a frock and you don’t like it, she’ll loathe the sight of it.”
“That’s right,” said Crispin. “And if you get a pair of boots and they frighten her, the very thought of the swine’ll make your gorge rise.”
“Therefore,” continued Madge, bubbling, “the usual practice must be reversed. The things that a man does will become Nell’s business, while David must choose and manage what’s usually left to the girl.”
There was a pregnant silence.
Then—
“My dear,” said her husband, “I take my hat right off. What a truly tidal brain-wave. David, we’ll go and look at chemises to-morrow morning.”
“No, you won’t,” said Madge. “But we shall—David and I. And you and Nell will go and get David some boots.”