"Yes, sir."

Ralph burst out laughing.

"What are you laughing at?" asked Jinks, with dignity.

"At your falling in love with Redbud Summers."

"I am not, sir; perhaps in light moments I may have made that youthful damsel a few gallant speeches; but I did not refer to her, sir."

"To whom, then?"

"To the perfidious Sallianna."

"Oh!" cried Ralph, restraining his laughter by a powerful effort.

"What surprises you, sir?"

"Nothing."