"I had no number, so I had to ask," she replied.
"Then, of course, you were directed at once," suggested Mr Poulter eagerly.
Mavis's consideration for the old man's feelings was such that she thought a fib was justified.
"Yes," she said.
Mr Poulter's eyes lit with happiness.
"That's the advantage of being connected with 'Poulter's,'" he said. "You'll find it a great help to you as you make your way in the world."
"I'm sure of it," remarked Mavis, with all the conviction she could muster. After a few moments' silence, she said:
"There's another dancing academy on the other side of the road."
Mavis was surprised to see Mr Poulter's gentle expression at once change to a look of intense anger.
"Gellybrand's! Gellybrand's! The scoundrel!" cried Mr Poulter, as he thumped his fist upon the table.