avoiding his sister's eyes. "She's stalling, Bob. Make her
answer."

"Yes or no?" forcefully insisted the wooer, determined, now, to
show his complete sobriety.

"No."

Jim seized Wharton's hand and shook it lustily. "Congratulations,
old man; that means yes. I'm her brother, and I know. Why, she
told father that you were her ideal, and pa said he'd die happy if
you two were married. He meant it, too; he's a mighty sick man."

Lorelei stirred uncomfortably, and the faint color in her cheeks
faded slowly. "We'll talk about it some other time--to-morrow.
Please don't tease the poor man any more. He didn't know what he
was saying, and--now, for Heaven's sake, talk about something
else."

Jim leaped to his feet with a grin and a chuckle, then drew Lilas
from her chair, saying: "The lovers are embarrassed, and they're
dying to be alone. Let's leave 'em to talk it over."

"She's a dear, Bob, and I wish you both joy. But don't kiss her
here," said Lilas, warningly; then with a wave of her hand she
turned toward the dancing-room with Jim.

"Call us when you've fixed the date," laughed the latter, over his
shoulder.