I Forbid the Banns! — page 161: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CHAPTER XXIII. ON THE BEAST. E, was rewarded by the sight of a four-wheeler at the door. Mr. Hardy and his wife stepped out, and when the maidservant found time to answer their knock they entered the room. Eric smiled to observe the expression on Charlton’s face as he was greeted by the secretary of the carnisolists. He smiled more broadly still as Mr. Hardy began a disquisition on the subject of the new cult, which involved total absti- nence from all forms of food except flesh meat. ‘‘I hope I may count on your becoming a member, Mr. Charlton,’’ said the secretary. ‘‘All that we want now isan increase in membership and plenty of life members with the privilege of signing oneself V. I. C. T. I. M.”’ ‘Victim,’’ said Bertha, with a laugh. ‘“‘V. I. C. T. I. M.,’’ continued Mr. Hardy, ignoring her interruption. ‘‘Thatis, I need hardly say, Vice- Integral Car- nisolist To Improve Mankind. Let me make out a receipt for your life subscription, sir? We want intelligent men badly.’’ ‘*‘Not a doubt of it,’’ said Bertha. ‘“‘T am afraid that all the contribution of this nature that I could offer you would not materially add to your resources, Mr. Hardy,’’ said Charlton. ‘‘Twenty-five guineas, Mr. Charlton, is still something,’’ said the secretary. ‘“That is money, not intelligence,’’ remarked Julian. Mr. Hardy looked really puzzled, as persons do when they are trying to master some subtle theological distinction, involving fine hair splitting. 151 ’ CEORNIELIOOKS (E©)