Chapter IX: (Monday, January 21, 1907.)

SHE--Please ring the other party on this line. Is that Madison 7-9-3-1-y? Mrs. Vincent, isn't it? This is Genevieve Pratt, Mrs. Vincent. I hope you're feeling better than when I saw you? So glad to hear it. Isn't this fine, crisp weather? Do I want to speak to your son? If I may. Is that you, Carroll?

HE--Why, little girl!

SHE--Surprised to hear from me so soon? Well, after I came in the house I found an invitation to a private dance at the Belvedere two weeks from tonight. Lida and her husband are to give it. I've heard it's to be a swell affair--big ballroom decorated, orchestra and seated supper. I want you to go with me. Will you?

HE--Now, you know very well I will, little girl.

SHE--Oh, I'm so glad! I'll see everybody I know; I'll have you with me, and--you know how to dance so well.

HE--You mean we know how to dance together. Listen, Genevieve: If I go, are you going to give me every dance?

SHE--Certainly not. People would talk too much. If you're good, you may have every other one.

HE--And sit out the rest with you?

SHE--Perhaps. All right, mother.

HE--What did you say?

SHE--Did you hear? That was mother insisting that I come to dinner.

HE--I'll let you go, then. You promised me every one, don't forget.

SHE--No, I didn't.

HE--Do you remember what I told you coming uptown this afternoon?

SHE--You told me a lot of things.

HE--I told you you were the most tormenting little vixen on earth.

SHE--You didn't mean it, did you? All right, mother. Listen, Carroll, I really must go. Tell me you didn't mean it.

HE--I did mean it. You are the most tormenting, also the most lovable. I wouldn't have you otherwise.

SHE--Oh, Carroll!

HE--Goodbye.