Julian could not at once explain his
errand. He felt that caution was imperative. Besides, the lady doubtless
expected to be entertained at Verrey's or possibly even at Charbonnel's.
But Julian had resolved to throw himself upon the lady's hospitality.
"It's an awful day," he said.
The lady assented, adding that she had not been out.
"We are very cosey here," Julian continued, gazing at the small fire that
was sputtering in the grate.
The lady looked gratified. She felt that the meagre abode which she must
name home had received the hallmark of a "toff's" approval.
"Now I am going to ask you something," Julian said. "Will you let me
have tea with you to-day, and--and--come out with me some evening to
the Empire or somewhere, instead?"
The lady nodded her fringed head.
"Certainly, my dear," she responded. "Proud to give you tea, I'm sure."
Suddenly she bounced up, scattering Jessie over the floor. She promenaded
to the door, opened it and yelled:
"Mrs. Brigg! Mrs. Brigg!"
The expostulating feet of the old person ascended wearily from the lower
depths of the house.
"Lord! Lord! Whatever is it now?" she wheezed.
"Please bring up tea for me and this gentleman."
The lady assumed the voice of a sucking dove.
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