"That is true," I returned, "and you are most welcome. You may go,
Johnson." I gave the butler a cold look and he stalked away.

* * * * *

I then introduced Bag Ears to my new bride. "This is Joy. I am certainly
a lucky man, Bag Ears. Isn't she the most beautiful thing you ever saw?"

Bag Ears was of course impressed. "Golly, what gams!" he breathed. His
eyes traveled upward and he said, "Golly, what--what things and stuff."
He came finally to her face. "Baby, you got it!"

Joy was rocked back on her heels. Caught unawares by the open admiration
in his eyes, she whispered, "Oh, my ancient step-ins!"

But she rallied like a thoroughbred and gave Bag Ears a dazzling smile.
"I'm delighted, Mr. Mulligan. Homer's friends are my friends--I
think--and I'm sure everything will turn out all right."

Bag Ears said, "Lady--leave us not be formal. Just call me Bag Ears."

"Of course--Bag Ears--leave us be chummy."

He now turned his remarks to me and evinced even more intense admiration
for my bride. "She reminds me of a fast lightweight--the most beautiful
sight in the world."

"Let us repair to the conservatory," I said, "where we can have a quiet
chat." I said this because I felt that some of the other guests might
not be as tactful as Joy and might make Bag Ears feel uncomfortable.
Aunt Gretchen had rudely vanished without waiting for an introduction
and the actions of the hostess often set the pattern for those of the
guests.

As we moved toward the rear of the house, Joy took my arm and said,
"Speaking of being stripped down for action--what do you suppose
happened to Uncle Peter? I haven't seen him around anywhere."

"He gave his word, so I'm sure he'll come."

"That's what I'm afraid of."

"I don't understand."

"I don't quite understand myself, but I feel uneasy. I remember the
calculating look in his eye when he suddenly agreed to honor us with his
presence. There was something too eager about that look. And his asking
whether any of your friends would be here."

"Uncle Peter is basically a good follow. I think he envies me my wide
contacts."

"Maybe."

"If he seemed a trifle peculiar, you must remember that he is a
scientist. Even now he is engaged in some important project--some
experiment--"

"I know--we met her."

"Joy! Please!"

"--but I wouldn't think he'd have to experiment at his age. I'd think--"

I put my hand firmly over her mouth. "Darling--we have a