So Mrs. Hauksbee, in "The Foundry" which overlooks Simla Mall, sat at the feet
of Mrs. Mallowe and gathered wisdom. The end of the Conference was the Great
Idea upon which Mrs. Hauksbee so plumed herself.
"I warn you," said Mrs. Mallowe, beginning to repent of her suggestion, "that
the matter is not half so easy as it looks. Any woman--even the Topsham girl--
can catch a man, but very, very few know how to manage him when caught."
"My child," was the answer, "I've been a female St. Simon Stylites looking
down upon men for these--these years past. Ask The Mussuck whether I can
manage them."
Mrs. Hauksbee departed humming, "I'll go to him and say to him in manner most
ironical." Mrs. Mallowe laughed to herself. Then she grew suddenly sober. "I
wonder whether I've done well in advising that amusement? Lucy's a clever
woman, but a thought too careless."
A week later, the two met at a Monday Pop. "Well?" said Mrs. Mallowe.
"I've caught him!" said Mrs. Hauksbee; her eyes were dancing with merriment.
"Who is it, mad woman? I'm sorry I ever spoke to you about it."
"Look between the pillars. In the third row; fourth from the end. You can see
his face now. Look!"
"Otis Yeere! Of all the improbable and impossible people! I don't believe
you.
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