I was proud of what I had done, and as we were walking home together I waited to receive his gratitude.
"As it seemed slow in coming, I hinted my expectations.
"'Well,' I said, 'I think I managed that very cleverly for you.' "'Managed what very cleverly ?' said he.
"'Why, getting you and Miss Trevior left together for such a long time in the conservatory,' I answered, somewhat hurt; '_I_ fixed that for you.' "'Oh, it was _you_, was it,' he replied; 'I've been cursing Providence.' "I stopped dead in the middle of the pavement, and faced him.

'Don't you love her ?' I said.
"'Love her!' he repeated, in the utmost astonishment; 'what on earth is there in her to love?
She's nothing but a bad translation of a modern French comedy, with the interest omitted.' "This 'tired' me--to use an Americanism.

'You came to me a month ago,' I said, 'raving over her, and talking about being the dirt under her feet and kissing her doorstep.' "He turned very red.

'I wish, my dear Mac,' he said, 'you would pay me the compliment of not mistaking me for that detestable little cad with whom I have the misfortune to be connected.

You would greatly oblige me if next time he attempts to inflict upon you his vulgar drivel you would kindly kick him downstairs.' "'No doubt,' he added, with a sneer, as we walked on, 'Miss Trevior would be his ideal.