“I'll come in and bring my things at nine o'clock to-night,” said Mr. Hatchard. “I'd like the windows open and the rooms aired a bit. And what about the sheets?”
“What about them?” inquired his wife.
“Don't put me in damp sheets, that's all,” said Mr. Hatchard. “One place I was at——”
He broke off suddenly.
“Well!” said his wife, quickly.
“Was very particular about them,” said Mr. Hatchard, recovering. “Well, good-afternoon to you, ma'am.”
“I want three weeks in advance,” said his wife.
“Three—” exclaimed the other. “Three weeks in advance? Why——”
“Those are my terms,” said Mrs. Hatchard. “Take 'em or leave 'em. P'r'aps it would be better if you left 'em.”
Mr. Hatchard looked thoughtful, and then with obvious reluctance took his purse from one pocket and some silver from another, and made up the required sum.