There was a radio going loudly inside; people were laughing and talking and shuffling about to the music. Read hesitated, nearly withdrew; then, shrugging, he rang the bell. A little fun might be good for him; he was getting to be quite a stick-in-the-mud! The door opened at once. A woman with shining blond hair thrust her head out and cried: “Surprise!” Then she started, recognizing Read, and said: ”Oh, excuse me, Governor. Won’t you come in? I thought it was Gregg.” “Gregg! Isn’t he here?” “No, he isn’t. But he’ll be right back.” This woman was pretty. Read began to thaw. “That’s a funny way to give a party.” “Oh, Governor, it’s a long story. Please come in. Let me take your hat and coat. Gregg’s Jap boy is so busy dragging in drinks he…” “Thank you.” He went in. She closed the door, then took his hat and coat and put them on a chair in the little hallway.
