There was a silence for a moment, then Starr said:
"D'you suppose she knew?"
"How could she?" Benton asked. "Nobody knew till this noon, did they?"
Elsie spoke: "Of course she knew."
Mabel nodded her head slowly; her breast was heaving.
There was a pause for a moment. It was broken by Benton, who sat facing the door.
"There's The Scroyle!" he exclaimed. "Who's that with him?"
"Oh, that's Mrs. Page," said Elsie, narrowing her eyes.
Gay P. Summer, jimp and immaculate, with trousers creased and shiny shoes, with the latest style in mouse-colored hats, entered with his lady, and looked jauntily about for a good table. He found one near the Pintos. Having seated his partner, he leaned over toward her and whispered for a few minutes. By her immediate look in their direction, there was no doubt that he was informing her of the fame of the coterie at the central table, and boasting of his acquaintance with it. Then he arose.
"By Jove!" said Benton. "He's coming over here! What d'you think of that!"