Chapter 14

“Doubtless,” murmured Welper, “you have already instructed Miss Dirck concerning our—ah—little family here in the Forty Club? Our quaint customs, and ah-m—m—our little _prejudices_—” “I’ve explained it all. She knows. I’m entirely responsible for her, Barney.” “Very well, John.” . . . He turned with an almost slinking inclination to the girl. “Then there remains only to—ah—to offer you my respectful felicitations . . . and the freedom of the Forty Club, Miss Dirck, as soon as you care to m—m—to—ah—consummate the ha…