But Bob was insistent. "It pains me to pull the props out from under the 'profession' and leave the drama flat, but matrimony was a successful institution before the Circuit Theater was built, and a husband has rights. I intend to cure you of the work habit. You must learn to scorn it. Look at me. I'm an example of the unearned increment. We'll kiss this dinky flat a fond farewell--it's impossible, really--I refuse to share such a dark secret with you. To-morrow we leave it for the third and last time. What d'you say to the sunny side of the Ritz until we decide where we want to travel?" "You don't want to leave New York, you know," she told him, soberly. "You're offering to go because you think it's the proper thing to do and because you don't know what else to suggest. But--I have to work." "Ah! The family, eh? We'll retire 'em and put an end to this child labor. Now, as for the trip--we've got to do SOMETHING: we can't just--live. Where do you have your clothes made?" Lorelei named several tailors of whom Bob had seldom heard. "That won't do," he said, positively. "I'll get a list of the smartest shops from Mrs. Thompson-Bellaire, and I want you to buy enough gowns to last till we reach Paris--a couple dozen will do--then we'll fit out properly. I'll bet you never went shopping--really shopping--did you? and bought everything you saw?" "Of course not. I never dreamed of such a spree." "Well, that will be lesson number two. Can you ride?" "Not well." "Must know how to ride--that's number three, and very important. I'll get you some horses when we return. We'll spend our mornings at Durland's for a while, and I'll teach you to play polo, too. All the girls are going in for it lately. You'll need an electric motor, I suppose, for calling and shopping--they're making some stunning bodies in that wicker effect. Now, what's your favorite jewel? I haven't had time to get your ring yet--this whole day was upside down. Everything had closed before I opened up, but to-morrow we'll paw through Tiffany's stock, and you can choose what you like. I'm going to select a black-opal set for you--they're the newest thing and the price is scandalous." He paused, eying her curiously, then with a change of tone inquired, "Say, are you in mourning for somebody?" "Why, no." "You don't seem to care for all these things I've bought." Lorelei laughed spontaneously, for the first time during the long day. "Of course I care. But--where is the money coming from? You haven't a dollar." "My dear, so long as the Western Union lasts you'll never see a wrinkle on my brow. We'll begin by destroying everything you own--hats, gowns, jewelry--then we'll start at the beginning." Just then the apartment bell rang. Bob went to the door. He returned with his father at his heels. Mr. Wharton tramped in grimly, nodded at his daughter-in-law, who had risen at the first sound of his voice, then ran his eyes swiftly over the surroundings.