"That's torn it," said I, laughing too.

"And now," said Eve, recovering, "take off your coat. You must
be so tired."

I drew my pumps out of the great pockets, and threw the coat off
me and across the back of a chair. Then I kicked off my great
high rubber boots, stepped into my pumps, and looked ruefully at
my dress trousers.

"They're only a little creased," said the girl.

"You must forgive them," said I.

"Jill wouldn't have minded, would she?"

"Jill wouldn't have mattered."

"Nor does Eve. Remember my hair."

"I shall never forget it," said I. Then I picked up her little
shoes and stooped to fit them on to their feet.

"You are looking after me nicely, Adam," she said, laying a hand
on my shoulder to keep her balance. I straightened my back and
looked at her.

"My dear," I said, "I- oh, heavens, let's see what we've got for
supper." And I turned hurriedly to the dishes in front of the