"It's all dashed fine, but I'm not--" blustered Elkin. He yielded to
Ingerman's outstretched hand.

"I seem to have brought discord into a friendly gathering," came the
mournful comment. "Such was far from being my intent. Landlord, the round
is on me, with cigars. Now, let us talk of anything but this horror. If I
forget myself again, pull me up short, and fine me another round."

Siddle half rose, but thought better of it. Evidently, he meant to use
his influence to stop foolish chatter.




CHAPTER V

THE SEEDS OP MISCHIEF


Ingerman was a shrewder judge of human nature than the village chemist.
As well try to stem the flowing tide as stop tongues from wagging when
such a theme offered.

Tomlin created a momentary diversion by clattering in the bar. After this
professional interlude, Ingerman ignored his own compact.

"I'm sure you local residents will be interested, at least, in hearing
something of my wife's career," he said. "There never was a more lovable
and gracious woman, and no couple could be more united than she and I