"I shall take good care of all of them, Force."

"And now about this Madame Du--"

"She is out of the question, Force. Good night!"

"Just as you say, old man. I sha'n't insist if you are opposed to--"

"Good night!"

"But I will feel a great deal easier in my mind if she isn't allowed
to come in contact with the rest--"

Mr. Bingle hung up the receiver.




CHAPTER XI

A TIMELY LESSON IN LOVE


The Forces returned from Europe late in February. They cut their visit
short because Mr. Force's jubilant cablegram to Mr. Bingle drew from
its recipient a reply so curt and effective that there could be no
mistaking his stand in the matter of Kathleen.

Toward the end of the first week in February, Mr. Force cabled:
"Everything smoothed out. Rejoice. Wife keen about K. Insists on