"Because I'm town crank? Ye-es, that's what I mean."
"Indeed! That is his idea of a joke, is it?"
"Seems to be. He's an awful comical critter, Phin Babbitt is—in his own way."
"Well, it's not my way. He sends me over here to make an ass of myself and insult you—"
"Now, now, Major, excuse me. Phin didn't have any idea that you'd insult me. You see," with the fleeting smile, "he wouldn't believe anybody could do that."
Grover turned sharply to the door. Mr. Winslow spoke his name.
"Er—Major Grover," he said, gently, "I wouldn't."
The major paused. "Wouldn't what?" he demanded.
"Go over there and tell Phin and the rest what you think of 'em. If 'twould do 'em any good I'd say, 'For mercy sakes, go!' But 'twouldn't; they wouldn't believe it."
Grover's lips tightened.