"Superior power of intellect," was his somewhat vague and unsatisfying explanation. "Mind can start muscle any day. Never mind that poor chap. Where did we leave off?"
"You wouldn't," she replied significantly. "If I remember rightly."
"No more I won't," Peckover exclaimed, with boldness increased by his late coup. "Wasn't I just——? I don't mind beginning again, if you don't."
His impudence made her burst out laughing. "You are absurd. And you are not treating your friend well."
"P'raps not," he returned. "But when I look at you I feel called upon to treat myself well. Besides, he'll never miss it."
"Miss what?" she asked, innocently or by design falling into his trap.
"A kiss," he answered. "You'll let me have one, Ulrica?"
Miss Buffkin was saved the trouble of dealing with the—perhaps embarrassing—request, by the appearance of Gage, who came up somewhat heated and resentful, followed by Lady Ormstork, whose face wore the look which dowager peeresses wear when their plans, matrimonial and financial, succeed.