"Yes, I did," said Ralph. Verty smiled, and said:
"I did not hear what you asked."
"No wonder," said Ralph. And turning to Mr. Jinks:
"Observe," he said, in a low tone, "how Mr. Verty is trying to make
Miss Sallianna jealous."
"Perdition!" said Mr. Jinks.
"Oh, certainly!" replied Ralph, with solemn sympathy; "but here is Mr.
Verty waiting patiently to hear what I have to say."
"Yes," said Verty, still smiling.
"It is Mr. Jinks who desires to speak," said Ralph, retiring with a chuckle, and leaving the adversaries face to face.
"Hum—at—yes, sir—I desired to speak, sir!" said Mr. Jinks, with threatening calmness.
"Did you?" said Verty, smiling.