"I never was so insulted in my life," stormed Mrs. Knight. "You
should have HEARD him!"

With a show of confidence not entirely real Jim rejoined: "Now,
ma, don't heat up. Everybody forgets me, but I'm going to draw
cards in this game."

The interview that followed their arrival at Lorelei's home was
far from pleasant, for Mrs. Knight was still too indignant to
leave the discussion in Jim's more capable hands; and Lorelei,
wishing Bob to cherish no illusions, allowed her relatives to make
a complete and distressing exhibition of their greed. At his first
opportunity Bob explained rather briefly:

"I offered Lorelei her freedom last night when my income was
amputated."

"You've had time to think it over," his wife interposed. "Do you
still want me?"

"Why, of course. And you?"

She shrugged. "I don't change in one night. Now--I wish you and
Jim would leave mother and me--"

Bob acquiesced, glad to escape even in company with his redoutable
brother-in-law. When he and Jim had gone Mrs. Knight addressed
Lorelei with motherly candor.

"He's a pleasant fellow, of course, and he's crazy about you; but