"That's right! Men always use their fingers to put coal on the fire--if they can. It's an agreeable habit."
He continued calm.
"It's scientific, strictly scientific; and may be logically defended, especially when a fire is being lighted. Heaping on coal with a shovel is unscientific--in the highest degree."
He struck a match; presently the paper was in flames.
"Now you had better go and wash your hands. You'll have to do it in the scullery; and by the time you're done, the fire will be out."
But the fire was not out. It was a complete success. The kettle was put on, preparations were made for tea, and the table was laid, Graham showing a talent for rendering assistance which was not accorded the thanks it might have been. Madge was chilly.
"I should imagine you were rather a handy person to have about the house."
"There are diversities of gifts; let us hope that each of us has at least one."
"Exactly. But, unfortunately, I do not care to see a man, what is called, 'making himself useful about the house'--if your gift lies in that direction. I suppose it is because I am not enough of a New Woman. Perhaps now you've given me your assistance in laying the cloth, you will give me some music."
He was smoothing a corner of the cloth in question--and looked down.