Part 13 (1/2)

And on each side of us was the nicest set imaginable--you know, dearest, the sort of men and women that can't be imitated.

AUBREY.

Yes, yes. Eat some more fruit.

PAULA.

But I haven't told you the best part of my dream.

AUBREY.

Tell me.

PAULA.

Well, although we had been married only such a few years, I seemed to know by the look on their faces that none of our guests had ever heard anything--anything--anything peculiar about the fascinating hostess.

AUBREY.

That's just how it will be, Paula. The world moves so quickly.

That's just how it will be.

PAULA.

[_With a little grimace._] I wonder! [_Glancing at the fire._] Ugh!

do throw another log on.

AUBREY.

[_Mending the fire._] There. But you mustn't be here long.

PAULA.

Hospitable wretch! I've something important to tell you. No, stay where you are. [_Turning from him, her face averted._] Look here, that was my dream, Aubrey; but the fire went out while I was dozing, and I woke up with a regular fit of the s.h.i.+vers. And the result of it all was that I ran upstairs and scribbled you a letter.

AUBREY.

Dear baby!

PAULA.

Remain where you are. [_Taking a letter from her pocket._] This is it. I've given you an account of myself, furnished you with a list of my adventures since I--you know. [_Weighing the letter in her hand._] I wonder if it would go for a penny. Most of it you're acquainted with; _I've_ told you a good deal, haven't I?

AUBREY.

Oh, Paula!

PAULA.