Let's pass them first," he suggested, "and then slacken down and wait for them to speak." Peter acquiesced, feeling rather more than an ass, but the drinks had gone slightly to his head.

They executed their share of the maneuver, Pennell looking at the girls and smiling as he did so.

But the two quickened their pace and passed the officers without a word.
"If you ask me, this is damned silly," said Peter.

"Let's chuck it." "No, no; wait a bit," said Pennell excitedly.

"You'll see what they'll do.