Strong Poison · Chapter 12 (2/2)

“Like me with the house decorating. I designed these pajamas, by the way. Don’t you think they’re rather entertaining? But I expect Chief Inspector Parker prefers the old-fashioned nightgown, like Dr. Spooner or whoever it was.”

“That would be a wrench,” said Wimsey.

“Never mind. I’ll be brave and devoted. Here and now I cast off my pajamas forever!”

“No, no,” said Wimsey, “not here and now. Respect a brother’s feelings. Very well. I am to tell my friend Charles Parker, that if he will abandon his natural modesty and propose, you will abandon your pajamas and say yes.”

“It will be a great shock for Helen, Peter.”

“Blast Helen. I daresay it won’t be the worst shock she’ll get.”

“Peter, you’re plotting something devilish. All right. If you want me to administer the first shock and let her down by degrees⁠—I’ll do it.”

“Right ho!” said Wimsey, casually.

Lady Mary twisted one arm about his neck and bestowed on him one of her rare sisterly caresses.

“You’re a decent old idiot,” she said, “and you look played out. Go to bed.”

“Go to blazes,” said Lord Peter, amiably.