This was a foolish answer, having no bearing on the question. I
told her so. She replied that she was years older than I, and
had learned the eternal relevance of all things. I pointed out
that she was years younger.

"How many heart-beats have you had in your life--real, wild,
pulsating heart-beats--eternity in an hour?"

"That's Blake," I murmured.

"I'm aware of it. Answer my question."

"It's a silly question."

"It isn't. The next time you see a female baby in a
perambulator, take off your hat respectfully."

I am afraid I am clumsy at repartee.

"And the next time you engage a cook, my dear Judith," said I,
"send for a mere man."

She coloured up. I dissolved myself in apologies. Her wounded
susceptibilities required careful healing. The situation was
somewhat odd. She had not scrupled to attack the innermost
weaknesses of my character, and yet when I retaliated by a hit at
externals, she was deeply hurt, and made me feel a ruffianly
blackguard. I really think if Lisette had pinned up that curtain
I should have learned something more about female human nature.
But Judith is the only woman I have known intimately all my life