“Then I think that’s practically settled. I’m dining with Bill tomorrow night, and I’ll get a list of who is to be there. That will be useful.”
“I’m sorry you can’t be there,” said Jimmy. “But on the whole I think it’s all for the best.”
“I’m not so sure I shan’t be there,” said Bundle. “Codders hates me like poison—but there are other ways.”
She became meditative.
“And what about me?” asked Loraine in a small, meek voice.
“You’re not on in this act,” said Jimmy instantly. “See? After all, we’ve got to have someone outside to—er—”
“To what?” said Loraine.
Jimmy decided not to pursue this tack. He appealed to Bundle.
“Look here,” he said, “Loraine must keep out of this, mustn’t she?”
“I certainly think she’d better.”
“Next time,” said Jimmy kindly.
“And suppose there isn’t a next time?” said Loraine.
“Oh, there probably will be. Not a doubt of it.”
“I see. I’m just to go home and—wait.”
“That’s it,” said Jimmy, with every appearance of relief. “I thought you’d understand.”
“You see,” explained Bundle, “three of us forcing our way in might look rather suspicious. And you would be particularly difficult. You do see that, don’t you?”