what is more remarkable is that Emma is listening to it too, Emma who is
seventeen, and who has been trying to keep Roger in his place ever since
he first compelled her to bowl to him. Things have come to a pass when
a sister so openly admits that she is only number two in the house.

Remarks well worthy of being recorded fall from these two ladies as they
gaze upward. 'I think--didn't I, Emma?' is the mother's contribution,
while it is Emma who replies in a whisper, 'No, not yet!'

Mr. Torrance calmly reads, or seems to read, for it is not possible that
there can be anything in the paper as good as this. Indeed, he
occasionally casts a humorous glance at his women-folk. Perhaps he is
trying to steady them. Let us hope he has some such good reason for
breaking in from time to time on their entrancing occupation.

'Listen to this, dear. It is very important. The paper says, upon
apparently good authority, that love laughs at locksmiths.'

His wife answers without lowering her eyes. 'Did you speak, John? I am
listening.'

'Yes, I was telling you that the Hidden Hand has at last been discovered
in a tub in Russell Square.'

'I hear, John. How thoughtful.'

'And so they must have been made of margarine, my love.'

'I shouldn't wonder, John.'