"But," he murmured weakly, "isn't that where we started?"
"Of course it is," said Miss Davies indignantly. "You've spoilt the whole
game, Arthur."
"Well, I can't help it," said her brother; "I thought that was the word we
were after. What was it, anyway?"
We all looked at the sky and thought hard.
"Hanged if I know," said John.
"I'm sure I don't," I said.
"Well, isn't that ridiculous?" said Miss Davies.
"Of course it is," said her brother brutally; "I _knew_ it was ridiculous
from the beginning. _You_ said it quickened the mental processes. Would
memory be one of them?"
"Let's go inside and have some tea," said John.
We crept quietly indoors.
* * * * *
Halfway through tea Miss Davies suddenly waved her teaspoon aloft. We
looked at her and saw a great light shining in her eyes.
"Hip--hip--hippopotamus!" she shrieked.
We all agreed that Miss Davies had won.
* * * * *
[Illustration: "PLAY US A CHUNE, MISTER."]
* * * * *