John Henry Smith

by W. W. Jacobs

  "The witness declines to answer," she defiantly replied.

  "You are guilty of contempt of court. Tell me, Miss Harding, why youplayed so atrociously that day?"

  "Atrociously?" she exclaimed with mock indignation. "You told me that Iwas doing splendidly, and you said that with a little practice I wouldmake a fine player. And now that I have verified your predictions youseem vastly surprised."

  "I was--I was trying to encourage you," I faltered.

  "In other words you were deceiving me, Jacques Henri. Confess that youwere!"

  "I do confess," I laughed. "You were the worst player I ever saw. Nowyou confess why you did it."

  "I shall confess nothing," she declared, her eyes dropping as I gazedinto them. "I shall confess nothing, Jacques Henri! Since when has itbeen decreed that a lady must confess to her chauffeur? Do not forgetyour place, Jacques Henri. Let's start for the club house; I see papaand others on the lawn."

  I have a theory of the truth, but it is too foolish to put in writing.We made a speedy run to Woodvale after a most delightful afternoon.