All human institutions had taken a crooked turn, and her cat could not be persuaded to pay the commonest attention to its kittens.

Then she asked me nonchalantly: "Have you seen anything of Dale lately ?" "He was working with me this morning.

I've been away, you know." "I forgot." "When did you last see him ?" I asked.
"Oh, ages ago! He has not been near us for weeks.

We used to be such friends.

I don't think it's very polite of him, do you ?" "I'll order him to call forthwith," said I.
"Oh, please don't! If he won't come of his own accord--I don't want to see him particularly." She tossed her shapely head and looked at me bravely.
"You are quite right," said I."Dale's a selfish, ill-mannered young cub." "He isn't!" she flashed.