have been cruel to confess it and spoil her pretty game; so I never let on, but said:

“Yes, I know, sweetheart — how dear and good it is of you, too!

But I want to hear these lips of yours, which are also mine, utter it first — then its music will be perfect.”

Pleased to the marrow, she murmured:

“Hello-Central!”

I didn’t laugh — I am always thankful for that — but the strain ruptured every cartilage in me, and for weeks afterward I could hear my bones clack when I walked. She never found out her mistake. The first time she heard that form of salute used at the telephone she was surprised, and not pleased; but I told her I had