Indeed, such a chivalrous adventure had vaguely passed through my mind during my exalted mood at Murglebed-on-Sea.

But then I knew little beyond the fact that Dale was fluttering round an undesirable candle.

Till now I had no idea of the extent to which his wings were singed.
"Hasn't Dale spoken to you about this creature ?" his mother asked.
"Young men of good taste keep these things from their elders, my dear Lady Kynnersley," said I.
"But you knew of it ?" "In a dim sort of way." "Oh, Simon--" "The baby boys of Dale's set regard taking out the chorus to supper as a solemn religious rite.

They wouldn't think themselves respectable if they didn't.

I've done it myself--in moderation--when I was very young." "Men are mysteries," sighed Lady Kynnersley.
"Please regard them as such," said I, with a laugh, "and let Dale alone.
Allow him to do whatever irrational thing he likes, save bringing the lady here to tea.