"You are extraordinarily well developed. You have unusually long arms
for a man of your height."

"Yep. I got a pretty good reach."

"Are you an artist?"

"A which?"

"An artist. A painter."

Steve smiled broadly.

"I've been called a good many things, but no one's ever handed me that.
No, ma'am, I'm a has-been."

"I beg your pardon."

"Granted."

"What did you say you were?" asked Mrs. Porter after a pause.

"A has-been. I used to be a middle, but mother kicked, and I quit. All
through taking a blue eye home! Wouldn't that jar you?"

"I have no doubt you intend to be explicit----"

"Not on your life!" protested Steve. "I may be a rough-neck, but I've
got me manners. I wouldn't get explicit with a lady."