However, they crossed in safety. Then they crossed again by the National Gallery and sauntered gaily along until they came to that great landmark in Mame’s adventurous life, the Carlton Hotel. She gave a long look at it as they went by. Even on this night of marvels she could not pass that consecrated spot without a sense of amazement and gratitude.
They turned up by the Haymarket, according to plan, and then slowly rounded the corner into Piccadilly Circus. And then it was in this identical moment that the goods were delivered in the most unexpected and convincing way. The surprise that had been solemnly promised Elmer appeared right before his eyes.
A flaming electric sign winked letter by letter from the starlit sky.
PRAIRIE CITY
BY ELMER PELL DOBREE
The Book
All the World
Is Reading
“Gee!” gasped Elmer. The secret had been carefully kept; he had not an inkling! A surprise indeed, a masterpiece of boosting.
Mame’s voice rose in triumph. “Say, listen, Elmer. I’ll tell the world this is where we put one over on London, England.”
Down Piccadilly they walked on air. No word passed. But to keep in touch with himself and the mundane realities Elmer took Mame’s hand. These were sublime moments. Suddenly, high above the famous street, the sign flamed out again.
“Say, listen, Mame,” began Elmer hoarsely. But even with all his genius to help him he did not know how to end, so he merely squeezed her hand.
The dear little go-getter, how slick she was! But she was also something much better than slick. She was fine and true. A minute they stood gazing at the recurring sign in all its brilliancy and then, life being too wonderful to stand still in it, they moved on hand in hand.
Sure it was destiny they should be walking thus, four thousand miles, four thousand solid miles, from the dear funny old spot in which they had walked last. If only Cowbarn, Iowa, could see that sign. The book all the world was reading; the book that had immortalised the Folks. Would they recognise themselves in all their humour and their quiddity?