Mr Merriot cocked an eyebrow at Kate, and said: - "Well, my dear, and did you kiss her good-night?"

Miss Merriot kicked off her shoes, and replied in kind. "What, are you parted from the large gentleman already?"

Mr Merriot looked into the fire, and a slow smile came, and the suspicion of a blush.

"Lord, child!" said Miss Merriot. "Are you for the mammoth? It's a most respectable gentleman, my dear."

Mr Merriot raised his eyes. "I believe I would not choose to cross him," he remarked inconsequently. "But I would trust him."

Miss Merriot began to laugh. "Be a man, my Peter, I implore you."

"Alack!" sighed Mr Merriot, "I feel all a woman.

Author: Georgette Heyer