“Peter can take them,” said Joan. “He drops them back. But he isn’t doing it today.”
Peter reflected. Troop would never understand, but there was something reasonable in Joan’s line. “I’ll see to Joan,” he said abruptly, and came towards the middle of the net.
The game continued on unorthodox but brilliant lines. “I don’t call this tennis,” said Troop.
“If you served to her left,” said Peter.
“But she’s a girl!” protested Troop. “Serve!”
He made the concessions that are proper to a lady, and Joan scored the point after a brief rally with Peter. “Game,” said Joan.
Troop declared he did not care to play again. It would put him off tennis. “Take me as a partner,” said Joan. “No—I don’t think so, thanks,” said Troop coldly.
Every one became thoughtful and drifted towards the net. Oswald approached from the pergola, considering the problem.
“I’ve been thinking about that sort of thing for years,” he remarked, strolling towards them.
“Well, sir, aren’t you with me?” asked Troop.