“How does the system work with the elaborate Continental table d’hôte, Mr. Emory?” queried Miss Thayer.
Uncle Peabody answered for him: “You became an object of suspicion to the head-waiter, and the garçon thought you were criticising the food.”
“Exactly,” laughed Emory. “But, all joking aside, Mr. Cartwright, I have become a confirmed disciple. I never felt so well, and I am eating about half as much as I used to.”
“This seems to be developing into an experience meeting,” Armstrong remarked. “Why don’t you write out a testimonial for the gentleman?”
“I would gladly do so, but from what I hear he stands in no need of any such document.”
Emory turned to Uncle Peabody. “It is a case of being ‘advertised by our grateful friends,’ is it not, Mr. Cartwright?”
“How long will you be in Florence, Phil?” asked Helen. “Are you just passing through again, or is this where you make your visit to the City of Flowers?”
“I have no definite plans. My steamer doesn’t sail for a month, and I am moving along as the wind blows me. Are the Sinclair girls still here?”
“No; they sailed for home last week.”
“Why don’t you stay in Florence for a while and help Helen exercise the automobile?” suggested Armstrong. “Miss Thayer and I are working every day at the library, and it will prevent her becoming lonesome.”