The filmy, far-away look continued in the eyes of Miss Perry. She paid heed to none.
Cheriton continued to elevate his forefinger very gravely.
“Sssh, Caroline!” said he. “One short and brief minute more. The whole situation is most critical.”
“Is the creature hypnotized?”
“Yes, she is undoubtedly.”
“Who gave permission for her to sit for her portrait? In those fal-lals, too.”
“Nature gave her permission, amiable old Dame Nature. She couldn’t refuse it.”
“I forbid it,” said Caroline, with all the energy of which she was capable. “It is disgraceful. It shall not go on.”
Then it was that Miss Perry ventured to say something.
“Large cream bun to-morrow morning, please,” said she.