"Oh, yes; that's a matter of course," said Johnny Eames. And then she
liberated him; and the two strolled into the front sitting-room.

"I declare, Mr Eames," said Mrs Lupex, "I'm glad you've come. Here's
Mr Cradell does say such queer things."

"Queer things!" said Cradell. "Now, Miss Spruce, I appeal to
you--Have I said any queer things?"

"If you did, sir, I didn't notice them," said Miss Spruce.

"I noticed them, then," said Mrs Lupex. "An unmarried man like Mr
Cradell has no business to know whether a married lady wears a cap or
her own hair--has he, Mr Eames?"

"I don't think I ever know," said Johnny, not intending any sarcasm
on Mrs Lupex.

"I dare say not, sir," said the lady. "We all know where your
attention is riveted. If you were to wear a cap, my dear, somebody
would see the difference very soon--wouldn't they, Miss Spruce?"

"I dare say they would," said Miss Spruce.

"If I could look as nice in a cap as you do, Mrs Lupex, I'd wear one
to-morrow," said Amelia, who did not wish to quarrel with the married
lady at the present moment. There were occasions, however, on which
Mrs Lupex and Miss Roper were by no means so gracious to each other.

"Does Lupex like caps?" asked Cradell.