He said humbly: “Palla, would you let me drop in–––”
“Drop into what? Into poetry? Please do!”
“For the love of–––”
“Jim! You told me last evening that you expected to be at the opera to-night.”
“I’m not going.”
“––So I didn’t expect you to call me!”
“Can’t I see you?” he asked.
“I’m sorry–––”
“The deuce!”
“I’m expecting some people, Jim. It’s your own fault; I didn’t expect a tête-à-tête with you this evening.”