tens of millions, cannot be expected to draw up formal
resolutions of thanks when a heretofore flabby department
begins to show signs of red blood.

Ella Monahan said, "They'll make light of it--all but
Fenger. That's their way."

Slosson drummed with his fingers all the time she was giving
him the result of her work in terms of style, material,
quantity, time, and price. When she had finished he said,
"Well, all I can say is we seem to be going out of the mail
order business and into the imported novelty line, de luxe.
I suppose by next Christmas the grocery department will be
putting in artichoke hearts, and truffles and French
champagne by the keg for community orders."

To which Fanny had returned, sweetly, "If Oregon and Wyoming
show any desire for artichokes and champagne I don't see why
we shouldn't."

Fenger, strangely enough, said little. He was apt to be
rather curt these days, and almost irritable. Fanny
attributed it to the reaction following the strain of the
Christmas rush.

One did not approach Fenger's office except by appointment.
Fanny sent word to him of her return. For two days she
heard nothing from him. Then the voice of the snuff-brown
secretary summoned her. She did not have to wait this time,
but passed directly through the big bright outer room