“Yes, I know,” agreed Jimmy placidly, “but I forgot it and I just came over to explain.” Alfred's fixed stare was relaxing and at last Jimmy could breathe.
“Oh,” murmured Aggie, with a wise little elevation of her eye-brows, “then that's why Zoie didn't keep her luncheon appointment with me yesterday.”
Jimmy felt that if this were to go on much longer, he would utter one wild shriek and give himself up for lost; but at present he merely swallowed with an effort, and awaited developments.
It was now Alfred's turn to become excited.
“Oh, IS it!” he cried with hysterical laughter.
Aggie regarded him with astonishment. Was this her usually self-controlled friend?
“Oh, no!” sneered Alfred with unmistakable pity for her credulity. “That's not why my wife didn't eat luncheon with you. She may TELL you that's why. She undoubtedly will; but it's NOT why. Oh, no!” and running his hands through his hair, Alfred tore up and down the room.
“What do you mean by that?” Aggie asked in amazement.
“Your dear husband Jimmy will doubtless explain,” answered Alfred with a slur on the “dear.” Then he turned toward the door of his study. “Pray excuse me—I'M TOO BUSY,” and with that he strode out of the room and banged the study door behind him.
“Goodness gracious!” gasped Aggie. She looked after Alfred, then at Jimmy. She was the picture of consternation. “What's the matter with him?” she asked.