There was no mistaking the challenge in the Russian's remark, however careless it may have sounded.
"I came to see you about Mr.Percivail's birthday," said Olga, abruptly changing the subject.

"Some one has suggested zat we all join in giving him a grand great big celebration.

Bonfires, fire-works, a banquet with speeches, and all zat kind of thing.

What do you think, eh ?" "He wouldn't like it at all," said Ruth promptly.

"Moreover, why should we celebrate his birthday?
He doesn't deserve it any more than scores of other--" "Oh, then we must drop it altogether," broke in Olga, rather plaintively.