vided you don't marry a prig—which heaven forbid, there's no reason why they shouldn't be regular young devils."
"You seem to be well up in eugenics, Noel," observed Madame Claire, her eyes twinkling. She was sitting near the fire in an old chair with a high, carved back. She loved their nonsense, and liked to spur them on to greater absurdities.
"He thinks he is," Judy said. "But honestly, spinsterhood is fast losing its terrors for me. One ought to be proud of it, and put it after one's name, like an order of merit. I shall begin signing myself, 'Judy Pendleton, V.F.C.' Virgin From Choice. Doesn't it sound charming?"
"Horrible!" exclaimed Noel. "I certainly wouldn't advertise the fact. I think spinsterhood is awful. I believe I'd rather see you a lady of easy virtue than a spinster, Judy."
"Really, Noel!" cried Judy. "And before Madame Claire!"
"She doesn't mind," scoffed Noel. "Besides, she agrees with me. Don't you, Madame Claire?"
She appeared to consider the question.
"I think spinsterhood would be less dull, in the long run," she answered. "After all, no one is
