Then we crossed to Wilmer's house.
Wilmer rang up the exchange. Bitter experience has assured us that we share the same operator.
"I want 4792 Marble Arch," he began.
4792 was still mute. So was 5921 B City. So were no fewer than all the eight further numbers prearranged.
Then I went back again and rang up 4792. This precipitated the crisis.
"I'm sorry, Sir, but I'm nearly sure I can't get them. Would you let me have a list of the numbers you want, and I'll get them when I can."
"The number I really want," I said, "is Mr. Wilmer's, 729 Lane, but I've given up trying to get that."
I was through to Wilmer like lightning; and a little later he rang me up by the same strategy.
Nowadays, if Wilmer or I have any trouble in getting one another, we have only to whisper 4792 Marble Arch, and we're through before we've thought of what to say.