"You've been in the kitchen again!" he exclaimed.
I placed the bottles on the grass without noticing the accusation.
"What was it this time—business as usual?" he inquired sarcastically.
"I have not been in the kitchen," said I, "although I did transact a little business with my cook." I did not add:—"business of making an outrageous ass of myself."
As I drew the first cork I was conscious of Smith's silent and offensive scrutiny. And very gradually my ears revealed my burning guilt under his delighted gaze.
Calm, but exasperated, I lifted my brimming glass and bowed politely to Smith.
"Go to the devil," said I.
"A rendezvous," said he.
And we drank that friendly toast together.
IV