“But no, never. And I press here—and here—and servants come without a summons. This is proof that Monsieur Dan Pritchard is indeed a great chief.”
“He is a very kind chief, at any rate. We all love him here.”
Tamea stared at Miss Mather disapprovingly. “I have heard that he is much beloved by women.” She frowned. “You may go,” she decreed.
Miss Mather, highly amused, retired. At the door she found the office boy, the chief clerk and Dan Pritchard about to enter, and explained to them the reason for the excitement. Dan entered, chuckling.
“You laugh!” Tamea challenged him haughtily.
“Yes, and I laugh at you.”
“Is that—what shall I say—very nice, very polite?”
“No, but I can’t help it. However, I’ll be fair with you, Tamea. You may laugh at me whenever you desire.”
“I shall never desire to laugh at you, Dan.”
“Forgive me, my dear.” He got his hat and overcoat from the closet. “We will go home now, Tamea.”