"Did he say that, Mannie?" she cried. "Wasn't that quick of him!
Did you hear what he said to Mannie, Vera?" she demanded.

Their mirth was interrupted by the opening and closing of the
front door and, in the hall, the murmur of men's voices.

Vance opened the door from the hall and entered, followed by
Judge Gaylor and Rainey. With evident pride in her appearance,
Vance introduced the two men to his wife, and then sent her and
Mannie from the room -- the latter with orders to dismiss the
visitors in the front parlor and to admit no others.

At the door Mrs. Vance turned to Vera and nodded mysteriously.

"If that party calls," she said with significance, "I'll put him
in the front parlor." With a look of dismay, Vera vehemently
shook her head but, to forestall any opposition, Mrs. Vance
hastily slammed the door behind her.

In his most courteous manner Judge Gaylor offered the chair at
the head of the centre table to Vera, and at the same table
seated himself. Vance took a place on the piano stool; Rainey
stood with his back to the mantel piece.

"Miss Vera," Gaylor began impressively, "I desire to apologize
for my language this morning. As Rainey no doubt has told you, I
have opposed you and Professor Vance. But I -- I know when I'm
beaten. Your influence with Mr. Hallowell today -- is greater
than mine. It is paramount. I congratulate you." He smiled