for more wisdom than to allow yourself to be inveigled into an
engagement with a woman considerably older than yourself. I advise
you to think of earning your living before entangling yourself with
a wife whom you will have to support, and, in all probability, her
brother also, who appeared to be nothing but a loafer."

Instead of receiving this advice in a sensible manner, Lupin jumped
up and said: "If you insult the lady I am engaged to, you insult
me. I will leave the house and never darken your doors again."

He went out of the house, slamming the hall-door. But it was all
right. He came back to supper, and we played Bezique till nearly
twelve o'clock.



CHAPTER IX



Our first important Party. Old Friends and New Friends. Gowing is
a little annoying; but his friend, Mr. Stillbrook, turns out to be
quite amusing. Inopportune arrival of Mr. Perkupp, but he is most
kind and complimentary. Party a great success.


November 15.--A red-letter day. Our first important party since we
have been in this house. I got home early from the City. Lupin
insisted on having a hired waiter, and stood a half-dozen of
champagne. I think this an unnecessary expense, but Lupin said he