elderly gentleman of much vigor and directness; and it is impossible
to describe Mrs. Slosher, who was never twice alike, anyhow, being
merely the spirit of a beautiful ever changing youth in a body of
beautiful ever changing habiliments.

"What do you want for the river-view property you have just
purchased?" Mr. Slosher demanded.

"I don't know," confessed Johnny, laughing. "The valuation is going
up so rapidly that I can't keep track of it myself. Mrs. Guff was
just in, asking the price."

Mrs. Slosher tapped the toe of a beautiful satin carriage slipper
impatiently upon the floor, and a very bright red spot glowed on
each cheek; but she did not say a word. She only looked at her
husband. Mr. Gamble had a queer idea that her mere gaze could, on an
occasion like this, burn holes through a cake of ice. Certain it is
that Mr. Slosher turned quickly to her--and then, as if he had been
galvanized, turned back to Johnny.

"I'll give you until to-morrow night to secure your highest offer
and then I'll add five per cent, to it," he stated.

"You understand the restrictions, I suppose?" ventured Johnny.

"Perfectly. My kind neighbors have handed me a ten-story apartment-
house, with a minimum rental per suite of three thousand dollars a
year. I'm going to build their neighborhood ornament and fill it
with high-toned niggers!"