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at last she and Clive were beaten, it was not a shameful defeat. Clive indeed was playing very well. ‘He is sustaining her,’ thought Monica. ‘We are well matched,’ Ingpen commented at the end of the next round. ‘He understands her game and I already understand yours.’ He glanced at her, slightly smiling, and Monica saw that Clive observed the glance.

Now they were bidding for the next lead. Clive had dealt and went one spade. Imperturbably Ingpen said: ‘Three hearts.’

‘Three spades,’ said Hester instantly, and Clive smiled across at her, thanking her for her promptitude and courage. But Monica, astonished out of her anger, looked round at the girl. She herself held an excellent hand of spades. Clive had the lead and Hester laid down her hand, black with disastrous clubs. There was a moment’s silence; then Monica said: ‘It was a mistake, Hester. Take it back.’ She was even sorry for Hester, seeing the look of wild fury that swept across her face as she stared down at the cards. ‘What did I say?’ she asked.

‘You said three spades. Take it back, my dear.’

‘If course I won’t take it back.’ She rose to her feet, leaving the hand lying and pushing back her chair. ‘I’m sorry, Clive. I’ve been an ass and you