"'Poulter's' would not occupy its present position if it were not for its straightforward dealing. What shall we play?"
Mavis, feeling light-hearted, was on the point of saying "Snap," but feared that the fact of her suggesting such a frivolous game might set her down as an improper person in the eyes of "Poulter's."
"Do you know 'Casino'?" asked Mr Poulter.
"I'm afraid I don't," replied Mavis.
"A grand old game; we must teach you another time. What do you say to 'Old Maid'?"
They played "Old Maid" deliberately, solemnly. After a time, Mavis had a strong suspicion that Miss Nippett was cheating in order that Mr Poulter might win; also, that Mr Poulter was manoeuvring the cards so that Mavis might not be declared "old maid."
This belief was strengthened when Mavis heard Miss Nippett say to Mr Poulter, at the close of the game:
"She ought to 'ave been 'old maid.'"
"I know, I know," replied Mr Poulter. "But I want her first evening at 'Poulter's' to be quite 'appy and 'omelike."
"Did you easily find 'Poulter's'?" asked Mr Poulter presently of Mavis.