"Mr. Cairns is here. You may ask him."
Cairns came to the telephone and said that he would consult the wishes and the convenience of Miss Lessler.
There ensued another pause, ostensibly for consultation, during which Jacqueline experienced a wicked and almost overwhelming desire to laugh.
Presently Cynthia called her:
"We think," she said with pretty emphasis, "that it would be very jolly to visit you. We can go to the museum any other Sunday, Mr. Cairns says."
But the spirit of mischief still possessed Jacqueline, and she refused to respond to the hint.
"So you are coming?" she exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"If you want us, darling."
"That's delightful! You know Jim and I haven't had a chance yet to entertain our bridesmaid. We want her to be our very first guest. Thank you so much, darling, for coming. And please say to Mr. Cairns that it is perfectly dear of him to let you off——"
"But he is coming, too, isn't he?" exclaimed Cynthia anxiously. "You are asking us both, aren't you. What are you laughing at, you little wretch!"