"I have heard the same story told in a dozen different ways," said Rankin.
"It has happened a hundred times. It must be continually happening," said Steingall.
"I know one extraordinary instance," said Peters, who up to the present, secure in his climax, had waited with a professional smile until the big guns had been silenced. "In fact, the most extraordinary instance of this sort I have ever heard."
"Peters, you little rascal," said Quinny with a sidelong glance, "I perceive you have quietly been letting us dress the stage for you."
"It is not a story that will please every one," said Peters, to whet their appetite.
"Why not?"
"Because you will want to know what no one can ever know."
"It has no conclusion then?"
"Yes and no. As far as it concerns a woman, quite the most remarkable woman I have ever met, the story is complete. As for the rest, it is what it is, because it is one example where literature can do nothing better than record."
"Do I know the woman?" asked De Gollyer, who flattered himself on passing through every class of society.