The matter of the business suit was upper-most in the mind of each. But as it was something that involved a further assault upon their financial stronghold, it was a subject that must be approached with great tact. Each, dreading an avalanche of reproach, waited for the other to speak. And it was not until Skinner had finished his second demi-tasse that he began, using the suggestive rather than the assertive form of speech, a form frequently used in the "feeling-out" process. He knew that he could tell by the way Honey received his suggestion whether to go ahead or gracefully to change the subject and save his face.
"I notice, Honey, that Colby and Crawford and the rest of that bunch wear dark business suits," he ventured.
"Dark, but generally with a fine, threadlike stripe, and ties to match always," Honey said softly. "And the simplest jewelry," she went on,—"inexpensive jewelry!"
Then they both fell silent.
"I know what you're thinking about," Skinner ventured again, not unwilling to shift the burden.
"What?"
"You want me to get a new business suit. Now, don't deny it."
He made the "don't deny it" suggest a warning, almost a threat. But now that the ice was broken, Honey did n't take the plunge. Instead, she felt her way in.
"You have n't had one for ever so long—and that was only a cheap one."
"I would n't need one now if I did n't have to live up to that darned dress suit you made me buy."