“If you want them you’ll have them, of course. I only meant——”
“You’re very kind,” said his wife, with a metallic laugh. “D’you really mean that I can make use of my own maid?” She tapped the floor with her foot. “Of course, this is too handsome. Never mind. Supposing I am so reckless as to accept your offer—what are you going to do about your dress?”
“I won’t go,” said Peregrine. “I don’t want to go. Masked balls aren’t much in my line, and——”
“I never knew any entertainment that was,” said Mrs. Below sweetly. “Not to put too fine a point upon it, you’re about the most effective wet blanket I’ve ever seen.”
“I realize that,” said Peregrine bitterly. “That’s largely why I don’t want to go.”
“I see,” said Mrs. Below. “And what if I need you? Supposing I’m taken ill, or something like that.” She silenced his protest with a shrug. “You see? Your convenience again, as opposed to mine. Instinctively, yours comes first. Never mind. For God’s sake don’t let’s discuss it. For the third and last time—what are you going to do about your dress?”
“I’ll buy one,” said Peregrine wildly.
Instantly the merciless point rose to his throat.
“Where?”
“Oh, I’ll find some place.”