The next morning on our return trip to New Bedford Polly said, “I read in the papers this morning that those girls in that theatre party last night were the bridesmaids at the Coates-Islip wedding. They seemed to know you quite well.”
I explained that in selling automobiles one became acquainted with many people.
Polly shook her head and laughed. Then she turned and looked at me.
“You never sold an automobile in your life,” she said.
With difficulty I kept my eyes on the road; but I protested vigorously.
“Don't think I have been spying,” said Polly; “I found you out quite by accident. Yesterday a young man I know asked me to persuade you to turn in your Phoenix and let him sell you one of the new model. I said you yourself were the agent for the Phoenix, and he said that, on the contrary, HE was, and that you had no right to sell the car in his TERRITORY.” I grinned guiltily and said:
“Well, I HAVEN'T sold any, have I?”
“That is not the point,” protested Polly. “What was your reason for telling me you were trying to earn a living selling automobiles?”
“So that I could take you driving in one,” I answered.
“Oh!” exclaimed Polly.