“ere I make up my mind to be damned.”

Major Parr said grimly:

“With what are we others to trade, who can make no verses? Is there not some more common form of wampum that you might consider?”

“A kind and unselfish heart is sound currency,” said Lana smiling and turning her back on Boyd; which brought her to face Lois.

“Do make a toast in verse for these importunate gentlemen,” she said, “and bring the last laggard to your feet.”

“I?” exclaimed Lois in laughing surprise. Then her face altered subtly. “I may not dream to rival you in beauty. Why should I challenge you in wit?”