His ejaculation died like the diminishing wail of a retreating fire
siren. That was because the duration of the monosyllabic diphthong
exceeded the time necessary for Peter to gain the security of the
bedroom where he donned his trousers and wished there were something
he could do to cover the blush of embarrassment on his face. His ears
especially.
* * * * *
Through the door he heard the stranger say: "Please come in, Miss
Willson. Peter's condition is but temporary."
"But why ... what ... and who are you?"
"That's a long story," replied the stranger. He turned and called out
to Peter. "I told you you'd not call the police!"
"Police!" exclaimed Joan. "Peter, is ... is--?"
"Not at all," said the stranger, interrupting her and intercepting the
words which had been intended for Peter. "I've had too little time to
make explanation. I'm Joseph Hedgerly."
"Relative of his?" asked Joan.
"Quite. And quite close."