I wish to God she would mind her own business." "And that I would mind mine ?" Dale did not reply.

For some odd reason he is devotedly attached to me, and respects my opinion on worldly matters.

He walked to the window and looked out.

Presently, without turning round, he said: "I suppose she has been rubbing it in about Lola Brandt ?" "She did mention the lady's name," said I."So did Renniker at the club.
I suppose every one you know and many you don't are mentioning it." "Well, what if they are ?" "They're creating an atmosphere about your name which is scarcely that in which to make an entrance into public life." Still with his back turned, he morosely informed me in his vernacular that he contemplated public life with feelings of indifference, and was perfectly prepared to abandon his ambitions.

I took up my parable, the same old parable that wise seniors have preached to the deluded young from time immemorial.