a marvel of marvels. I would suggest a little house in the country, or a small flat in town."
She considered this, smoking a faintly perfumed cigarette.
"What are Millicent's children like?"
"They're delightful. You'll love Judy and Noel."
"But Millie won't let them know me."
"I doubt if Millie will have very much to say in the matter. If they choose to know you, they will."
"And your wife—Louise?"
He hesitated.
"You may find her difficult."
"How difficult? One of those . . . those good women, I suppose." This with a sneer that made Eric wince.
"Louise is very . . . indifferent. Frankly, she doesn't care a straw for me."
"Not care for you? She must be a fool."
He inclined his head in the slightest of bows.
"You are my sister, and prejudiced."
"I know a man when I see one, whether he's my brother or not." She gave a short laugh. "Mon Dieu! I ought to, by this time."
"My wife," said Eric, "considers me a tiresome
