"If you do not sit at the table with me I lose. But please yourself,"—wearily. "It has all been very distasteful to me."
"I will stay to the bitter end. My conceit and assurance need a drubbing." I offered her my arm. All eyes were centered upon us. She hesitated. "We might as well go through this ordeal in a proper spirit and manner," I said. I rather believe I puzzled her.
She flushed slightly, but laid her hand on my arm, and together we walked over to the vacant chairs and sat down. The laughter and hum of voices ceased instantly.
In faith, I was becoming amused. They were going to have their fun with me; well, two could play at that game.
II
The host rose, and, leaning on his fingertips, he addressed me: "Sir, all this doubtless strikes you as rather extraordinary."
"Very extraordinary," I replied.
"To dine under such circumstances is not accorded to every man."
"To which do you refer: the honor or the modus operandi?"
"Both. Now, an explanation is due you."