'Before, I merely remarked you as Henry's wife--that was all. Why should I so suddenly observe your facial aspect? As Dr. Johnson once said----'
'Cut out Dr. Johnson, and go on with that bit about the facial aspect,' I put in gently.
'It must, of course, be self-consciousness arising out of my unusual adornment,' he went on, 'but despite myself I am compelled to notice your attractive qualities. I must, however, overcome this deplorable tendency--combat it----'
'I shouldn't combat it too strongly at first,' I suggested. 'It's always better to do things by degrees. What a nice mouth you have, William.'
'So have you,' he said, pondering on the discovery.
I blushed. William suddenly started back and smote his brow with his hand. 'Isn't Henry coming in? Where is he?' he demanded wildly.
'Are you so anxious to see Henry at the moment?'
'I am. Mrs. Warrington, I am ashamed to admit the preposterous idea that came into my mind just now. You and Henry would never forgive me--never countenance me again--it was intolerable, incredible----' He paused and wiped his brow. 'Why doesn't Henry come in?'
'What was the preposterous idea?' I asked, wondering.
'Well, you'll hardly believe it--scarcely realize what you've escaped . . . just now, had you been a foot closer to me I believe--I believe, Mrs. Warrington, I should have kissed you!'
I moved a step nearer to him. 'William, I should never have forgiven you if you had,' I said, raising my face to his so that he could see how intensely earnest I was.
The door opened, and Henry and Marion came in together.
'Netta!' exclaimed Marion, 'how could you!'
'My dear,' remarked Henry, 'I am surprised. How is it I come in and find a man kissing you?'
'I don't know, Henry,' I replied meekly, 'unless it's because that door opens so quietly!'
An exclamation from William made us all turn and look at him.
'I must have been mad,' he groaned, sinking into a chair and covering his face with his hands.
'That's what I thought myself just now when I caught sight of your waistcoat,' said Henry, staring at him. 'What is the meaning of all this--why the flawless trousers, the immaculate morning coat?'
'I--I--put on a morning coat because you said I wasn't to get into evening dress,' he replied. 'I know it isn't the correct thing for dinner, but you've only yourself to blame.'