thing, too. A man does not like to talk of--his need. But, now that
we have come to just this point, let us have it out. Surely our
partnership was not quite as narrow as you suggest? The book is a
detail. It is L. part of life which will fit in somewhere--an
important part in its right place--but it isn't the whole pattern."
He smiled whimsically. "Do not think of me as just an animated book,
my dear--if you can help it. And remember, no matter how we choose
to interpret our marriage, you are my wife. And my very good
comrade. The one thing which could ever change my need of you is
your greater need of--of someone else."

The last words were casual enough but the look which accompanied
them was keen, and a sense of relief rose gratefully in the
professor as no sign of disturbance appeared upon the thoughtful
face of his hearer.

"Is Benis here, my dear?" asked Aunt Caroline opening the door. "Oh
yes, I see that he is. Benis, you are wanted on the 'phone. If you
would take my advice, which you never do, you would have an
extension placed in this room. Then you could always just answer and
save Olive a great deal of bother. Not that I think maids ought to
mind being bothered. They never did in my time. But it would be
quite simple for you, when you are writing here, to attend to the
'phone. Perhaps if the butcher heard a man's voice occasionally he
might be more respectful. I do not expect much of tradespeople, as
you know, but if the butcher--"

"Is it the butcher who wishes to speak to me, Aunt?"

"Good gracious, no. It's long distance. Why don't you hurry? . . .