Now, Jimmy missed entirely: "But I say, Erna. I got an important date
then."
Her resentment returned at once. She recalled his neglect of yesterday.
"What?" she demanded jealously.
"I got to see Nolan an' Walcott an' his manager to-night. We got to talk
over an' arrange things. Besides, Nolan's givin' a little spread in my
honor among the boys. Can't you tell me now? Tell me now!"
"I said _to-night_, didn't I?" she retorted in dangerous tones.
"I know, Erna, but I can't see you to-night. Make it to-morrow night,
an' we'll talk it over, long's you won't say now. Make it to-morrow
night! An' I'll spend the whole evenin' with you."
Erna had turned her back on him. Jimmy came closer, but she walked away,
while he followed her, foolishly continuing to apologize and to cajole
her. Unhappily, Jimmy's suit was interrupted. Another man came into the
dining room: Eric Nielsen.
Glances passed between them. Nielsen went over to the farthermost
corner, took off his hat and coat and sat down. Jimmy looked at Erna on
the sly, but she paid no attention to him. The young fighter did not
stay for breakfast. He left the room without another word. And Erna
smiled secretly.
Nielsen, always a lover of other's secrets, had digested most of the
scene. But he was still a diplomat. Consequently, he said nothing and
permitted Erna to come over for his order. She looked nervous and
uncertain.
"What's new?" he asked pleasantly.
"Nothin'."
"Still ham and eggs and the old program?"