"And his collar too immaculate." (So the old gentleman was this charming creature's uncle!)
"We are obliged to disguise ourselves at times," I explained. "The police are always meddling. It is discouraging."
"You have some purpose, humorous or serious," said the girl shrewdly. "A man does not bring a pack of cards—"
"I didn't bring them; I sent out for them."
"—bring a pack of cards here simply to attract attention," she continued tranquilly.
"Perhaps I am a prestidigitator in a popular dime-museum," I suggested, willing to help her out, "and am doing a little advertising."
"Now, that has a plausible sound," she admitted, folding her hands under her chin. "It must be an interesting life. Presto—change! and all that."
"Oh, I find it rather monotonous in the winter; but in the summer it is fine. Then I wander about the summer resorts and give exhibitions."
"You will pardon my niece," interpolated the old gentleman, coughing a bit nervously. "If she annoys you—"
"Uncle!"—reproachfully.