"The last three times I paid calls in Harmouth," said poor Kitty, "I sported a cycling skirt, the blousiest of blouses, and a tam-o'shanter over my left ear. Of course everybody was in. So I thought if I went like this—brand new frock—swagger hat—white gloves—that everybody would be out."
"And were they?"
"No. Just like my luck—they were all—all in!"
"And yet you have the audacity to come here and ask for tea?"
"For Goodness' sake, don't talk of tea."
"I thought you were so thirsty."
"So I am. I thirst for amusement."
"Kitty! You've been amusing yourself all afternoon—at other people's expense."
"Yes. It's cheap—awfully cheap, but fatiguing. I don't want to amuse myself; I want to be amused."
Mr. Rickman took a longer look at the brilliant apparition.