But he was quick enough to see-- with the memory of more than one failure to warn him--that his only chance with Mr Bickers was, at all costs, not to quarrel.
"You are fortunate in your short memory; it is a most convenient gift." "It's one, at any rate, I would like to cultivate with regard to any unpleasantness there may have been between you and me, Bickers," said Railsford.
This was not a happy speech, and Mr Bickers accepted it with a laugh.
"Quite so; I can understand that.

It happens, however, that I have come to assist in prolonging your memory with regard to that unpleasantness.
I'm sorry to interfere with your good intentions, but it cannot be helped this time." "Really," said Railsford, feeling his patience considerably taxed, "all this is very perplexing.

Would you mind coming to the point at once, Bickers ?" "Not at all.

When I saw you yesterday I asked you to look at a letter I had with me." "Oh, yes; I remember now.

I was greatly taken up with the sports, and had no time then.