"But when he heard that—ahem—unfortunately she was engaged for that evening, he said he hoped I'd bring my sister myself,—only mentioned one sister, you see. Fact is, he's full up—afraid his drawing-room won't hold them all."
The Atom stared out of the window. Jim, having, with a good deal of ingenuity, extricated a curtain hook, dropped it on her head. She shook it off impatiently. Jim watched, peering impishly over the curtain rail.
"I'm awfully sorry, asthore,"—Denis pulled her pig-tail lovingly—"shall I put you in my pocket?"
"I will hear you speak," the Atom said.
"Well, I'll recite my speech to you and Jim here. Nell was saying she wishes you'd take her place."
"Don't be silly, Denis."
A measured step approached the door.
"Aunt Kezia—and Jim not in his cage!" he ejaculated, and strode to the door.
He glanced back at Jim—a dim little outline in the curtain. "If only he stays there!"
He swung out on to the landing, nearly upsetting Miss Kezia.