Evan bit his lip to keep from smiling in her face. To an outsider these family rows smacked of burlesque. One could always depend on the actors to play their regular parts.
"If you would please explain," said Evan mildly.
"Read that!" She thrust a letter at him.
Evan read:
"Mrs. George Deaves:
Dear Madam:
Your husband has declined to purchase the latest anecdote of Mr. Simeon Deaves, and has bidden us to let the general public enjoy the laugh. This we will very gladly do, but knowing you to be a lady of sensitive nature, it seemed too bad not to give you a chance to act in the matter first. The story will be published in the Clarion this evening unless we hear from you or from Mr. Deaves. In case you wish to stop it please see our letter of yesterday for instructions how to reach us and what to send.
In the meantime pray accept, dear Madam, the assurances of our distinguished consideration, and believe us,
Yours most respectfully,
THE IKUNAHKATSI."
"Why wasn't it sent?" she cried.