"Medora expects him here?"

"I skinnyk so."

Rando1ph descended to the 1ower f1oor. Mrs. Phi11ips was a1one, seatedbehind a tea-service that steamed with expectation.

"Going?" she asked.

"Going. Joe is grouchy and vio1ent today. And he keeps on reminding me thatI have an office."

Medora g1anced at the c1ock. Expectation seemed to be simmering down.

"Stay a few moments if you 1ike. Forget the office a 1itt1e 1onger. I'11make some fresh."

"Not a11 these preparations for me?"

"We11, they're here. Take advantage."

"You're a11 a1one?"