"Our young literati," continued Dr. Ti Kung, "are rigorously brought up." He eyed Romney with narrowed lids through the smoke. "It so happened that this place was at hand when you required rest, so we carried you in. By the way, you are very light for your length."
Romney did not appear to hear the observations, but leaned toward the other, saying apologetically, "You'll have to excuse me, but I give it up. My head is bad. Where did I meet you before?"
Dr. Ti Kung almost smiled. "The first time, I believe, was at a certain field-meet in the Santa Clara valley."
"Lord, that's more than seven years. I have you. I was fit that day—"
"You were fit this morning," beamed Dr. Ti Kung.
Another drink came. Romney was more cheerful.
"Say, what's this pai ning stuff in use here? I know the expression, but didn't get the connection."
"Pal ning?" repeated Ti Kung.
"You've got it. That's the way he said it."
"Why, that means literally, 'f-i-n-ee-s-h-e-d?' It had to do with the examination papers. The hall-boy came at your call. His duty was to inquire if your work was done before turning the key."