We bowed, but I turned instantly to Miss Warren and said.

"Do you note how delightfully Mrs. Yocomb unites our names? I take it
as an omen that we may become friends in spite of my shortcomings. You
should have been named first in the order of merit."

"Mrs. Yocomb rarely makes mistakes," she replied.

"That confirms my omen."

"Omens are often ominous."

"I'm prepared for the best."

"Hush!" and she bowed her head in the grace customary before meals in
this house.

I had noted that Mr. Yocomb's bow to Mr. Jones was slightly formal
also. Remembering the hospitable traits of my host and hostess, I
concluded that the young man was not exactly to their taste. Indeed, a
certain jauntiness in dress that verged toward flashiness would not
naturally predispose them in his favor. But Adah, although disclaiming
any special interest in him, seemed pleased with his attentions. She
was not so absorbed, however, but that she had an eye for me, and
expected my homage also. She apparently felt that she had made a very
favorable impression on me, and that we were congenial spirits. During
the half hour that followed I felt rather than saw that this fact
amused Miss Warren exceedingly.