"And then, o' course, while I was at home I got engaged."
Mrs. Dainopoulos stared at him and broke into a brief titter behind a handkerchief.
"That's a nice way to give out the information," she remarked. "Anybody'd think getting engaged was like buying a railway ticket or sending a postal order. Is she nice?"
"Well," said Mr. Spokesly, "I think so."
"Very enthusiastic!" commented the lady with considerable spirit. "Dark or fair?"
"Well," he repeated, "I should say dark myself."
"You don't intend to take any chances," Mrs. Dainopoulos retorted. "Haven't you a photo to show me?"
Mr. Spokesly felt his pockets, took out a wallet containing a number of unconvincing documents, some postage stamps and a five-piaster note.
"Matter of fact," he said, "I don't seem to have one with me. I got one on the ship, though," he went on. "Bring it ashore to-morrow."
"Sure you didn't tear it up by mistake or send it away in the laundry?" she demanded, watching him intently.