“That is what I particularly desire.”
“I am laughing at the situation. Do you know that there is something irresistibly ludicrous in situations, captain? I delight in situations—funny situations I mean.”
“Really, I don’t see anything very amusing in the present situation,” replied the puzzled staff officer.
“Don’t you, indeed? Well, I’m afraid you won’t appreciate the situation from your stand-point. What a pity we haven’t a photographer to give us the scene for future inspection!”
“Well, Miss Hasbrouk, you seem to be making yourself very merry at my expense. I am happy to have afforded you so much amusement; but I fear I am still your debtor for the bountiful hospitality of your house.”
“Don’t mention it, captain; and you won’t wish to mention it a few hours hence.”
“I assure you I shall ever gratefully remember your kindness to me.”
“Perhaps not,” laughed the maiden.
“Captain Somers,” interposed the major, “I think we have carried the joke far enough; and we will now proceed to the serious part of the business. In one word, you—”
“Stop, Major Riggleston, if you please,” interrupted Maud. “This is my affair.”