"Hush! Here he comes!"

As he spoke, Stafford and Claudia came up the drive and emerged on to
the lawn. They did not see the others and appeared to be deep in
conversation. Stafford was talking vehemently and Claudia listening with
a look of amused mutiny on her face.

"He's sworn off, hasn't he?" asked Ayre.

"Yes."

"She doesn't care for him?"

"I don't think so; but a man can't tell."

"Nonsense!" said Ayre. "What's Eugene up to?"

"Oh, you know he's booked."

"Kate Bernard?"

"Yes."

"Tell you what, Morewood, I'll lay you--"

"No, you won't. Come and see the picture. It's the finest thing--in its
way--I ever did."

"Going to exhibit it?"