It humours her, and it really isn't any trouble. Besides, it may
be necessary after all. One never knows, and it's best to be on the
safe side."
Kirk laid down his cigar firmly, the cold cigar which stress of emotion
had made him forget to keep alight.
"Ruth, old girl," he said earnestly, "this is pure lunacy."
Ruth's fingers wandered idly through his hair. She did not speak for
some moments.
"You will be good about it, won't you, Kirk dear?" she said at last.
It is curious what a large part hair and its treatment may play in the
undoing of strong men. The case of Samson may be recalled in this
connection. Kirk, with Ruth ruffling the wiry growth that hid his
scalp, was incapable of serious opposition. He tried to be morose and
resolute, but failed miserably.
"Oh, very well," he grunted.
"That's a good boy. And you promise you won't go hugging Bill again?"
"Very well."
"There's an angel for you. Now I'll fix you a cocktail as a reward."
"Well, mind you sterilize it carefully."
Ruth laughed. Having gained her point she could afford to. She made the
cocktail and brought it to him.
"And now I'll be off and dress, and then you can take me out to lunch
somewhere."
"Aren't you dressed?"
"My goodness, no. Not for going to restaurants. You forget that I'm one
of the idle rich now.
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