_The P. P. (turning over the priced Catalogue)._ Ah, here it is!
It's unsold--it's marked down at--(_his face falls_)--eleven--eleven
--that's _rather_ over my limit. (_To his Friend._) Do you mind
waiting while I try the paper on it once more? (_His Friend consents;
the P. P. returning, after an interval_.) No, I had my doubts from
the beginning--it _won't_ do, after all!
_His Friend._ But I thought you said the paper didn't put it out?
_The P. P._ It doesn't--but the picture takes all the shine out of the
paper.
_His Friend._ I suppose you couldn't very well change the paper--eh?
_The P. P._ Change the paper?--when it's only been up a week, and cost
seven-and-six the piece! My _dear_ fellow, what are you talking about?
No, no--I must see if I can't get a picture to match it at MAPLE'S,
that's all.
_His Friend (vaguely)._ Yes, I suppose they understand all that sort
of thing there.
[_They go out, relieved at having arrived at a decision._
* * * * *
[Illustration: CARNIVOROUS.
(_On Hospitable Thoughts intent._)
"OH, THEY'RE TOO MANY TO HAVE TO EAT ALL TOGETHER, PAPA! LET'S KNOCK
OFF THE CHILDREN FOR TEA."
"YES; AND WE CAN DO WITH THE FATHER AND MOTHER FOR DINNER, YOU KNOW!"]
* * * * *