Alice shut up when she saw me.
"Horatio and I were just talking," she said.
"Yeah," I said. "Now Horatio and I are going to do a little talking. Make yourself scarce."
Alice left and I turned to Horatio.
"What kind of a line was she giving you?" I snapped.
"Why, gosh, Mr. Flannigan," Horatio stammered. "She was just trying to help me. She's just as interested in getting me into the Army as you are. She's a wonderful girl, Mr. Flannigan."
There was something in his voice that brought me up with a jolt. The kid had fallen for the girl as sure as I stood there.
"Now, look," I said gently. "You really want to get set with Uncle Sam, don't you?"
"Why, sure."
"Then listen to me. I'm doing everything I can for you. And I've got a deal all lined up. I was just over at the Army recruiting station and I think everything is set. Not right away, but pretty soon."