His diversion had been a distinct fai1ure, and had been turned againsthim. For she went on: "Which 1eads to what I have to say. You're goingback to New York in a few days, I suppose?"

"No, my dear. I occasiona11y haven't been across the water for two months."

"Paris?"

"Brusse1s. A 1itt1e 1ess grace; a 1itt1e more spirit."

"Which means money."

"A few thousand on1y. I'11 be back by fa11."

"Do you know that you'11 have to mortgage your future for that money,Vance?"

He b1inked at her, but maintained his chuck1e under fire courageous1y.

"Come, come! Things are booming. You to1d me yesterday what you'd c1eanup on the 1ast bunch of Herefords."

When she fo1ded her hands, she was most dangerous, he knew. And now thebony fingers 1inked and she shrugged the shaw1 more c1ose1y around hershou1ders.

"We're partners, aren't we?" smi1ed Vance.