"A companion's life seems to be stiff with embargoes," he remarked, "The sooner you give it up the better. Would Aunt Emily's consent be any use to you?"

She shook her head.

"Then it is pure dislike?"

"No, it isn't!" said Miss Allison, unable to stop herself. "I mean— I mean— I'm going back into the drawing room!"

Mr. James Kane stepped between her and the way of escape. "All in good time. What do you mean?"

Miss Allison said bitterly: "You're one of those loathsome people who when given an inch grab an ell!"

"Me to the life," agreed Jim. "But let's get this straight. If you weren't my great-aunt's companion would you turn me down?"

Miss Allison, instead of assuring him that she would, replied a trifle incoherently: "It isn't so much Mrs. Kane. There's your mother too. She might well object to your getting entangled with a penniless companion-secretary."

"Good Lord, is that all?" said Jim, relieved. "You needn't worry about my mother. She won't care two hoots. Do you like coloured stones, or do you prefer diamonds?"

"I hate all jewellery!" said Miss Allison.

"Ah," said Mr. Kane, "I can see you'll make a Frugal Wife."

Before Miss Allison could think of a suitable retort their privacy was invaded by young Mr. Harte, who strolled into the conservatory with the air of one who is sure of his welcome and said cheerfully: "Hullo! What are you doing?"

"Oh, just looking at the magnolia!" answered Miss Allison. "What do you think of it?"

"Swell!" said Mr. Harte, somewhat unexpectedly.

"If you start that American film talk here you'll get thrown out on your ear," Jim warned him.

"Sez you!" replied Mr. Harte indulgently. "I say, Miss Allison, do you know what I think?"

"No, what?"

"Well, it's suddenly occurred to me that I shouldn't be at all surprised if somebody got murdered here tonight."