Tomlin grinned, perceiving an opportunity of "landing" heavily.
"Daughter? Rather muddled things, haven't you? Thought you'd arranged with your missis that it was to be a boy?"
"Did you? Well, being a better husband than you are, I let her 'ave her own way in that."
IV
The daughter was duly christened Josephina Biddlecombe, and, for the purposes of this narrative, we may skip a number of pet names, beginning with Baby and ending with Josie-posie. Ultimately she was called Posy and nothing else—a rechristening that took place in the distinguished presence of the Bishop of Melchester. The child was nearly three years old when that courtly prelate happened to drift into the shop. Susan and the child had entered a few minutes before.
"And what is your name, my dear?" he asked.
"Josie-posie," she replied demurely. Even at that early age Quinney's daughter was absolutely devoid of fear or shyness. She added confidingly: "And I wear a macheese."
"What does she wear?" asked the Bishop of Susan.
Susan blushed.
"She means a—chemise, my lord."