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CHAPTER III. A SET BACK
THE moment was not quite so triumphant as it ought to have been. To begin
with, the resources of Tommy's pockets were somewhat limited. In the end the
fare was managed, the lady recollecting a plebeian twopence, and the driver, still
holding the varied assortment of coins in his hand, was prevailed upon to move
on, which he did after one last hoarse demand as to what the gentleman thought
he was giving him?
"I think you've given him too much, Tommy," said Tuppence innocently. "I fancy
he wants to give some of it back."
It was possibly this remark which induced the driver to move away.
"
Well," said Mr. Beresford, at length able to relieve his feelings, "what the--
dickens, did you want to take a taxi for?"
"I was afraid I might be late and keep you waiting," said Tuppence gently.
"Afraid--you--might--be--late! Oh, Lord, I give it up!" said Mr. Beresford.
"And really and truly," continued Tuppence, opening her eyes very wide, "I haven't
got anything smaller than a five-pound note."
"You did that part of it very well, old bean, but all the same the fellow wasn't
taken in--not for a moment!"
"No," said Tuppence thoughtfully, "he didn't believe it. That's the curious part
about speaking the truth. No one does believe it. I found that out this morning.
Now let's go to lunch. How about the Savoy?"
Tommy grinned.
"
How about the Ritz?"
"
On second thoughts, I prefer the Piccadilly. It's nearer. We shan't have to take
another taxi. Come along."
"Is this a new brand of humour? Or is your brain really unhinged?" inquired
Tommy.
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