I did my best, and while I talked to him a little, I made it most to the women.

Any one could see they were starved for company, so I took the job of entertaining them.

I told some college jokes, funny things that had happened in the neighbourhood, and everything of interest I could think up.

I know we were at the table for two hours with things coming and going on silver platters." Mother sat straight suddenly.
"Just what did they have to eat, and how did they serve it ?" she asked.
"Couldn't tell if I were to be shot for it, mummy," said Laddie.
"Forgive me! Next time I'll take notes for you.

This first plunge, I had to use all my brains, not to be a bore to them; and to handle food and cutlery as the women did.