Book Excerpt: ..."I see where I stand with you, Miss Sprunt.""Oh, it isn't that, Mr. Chase. I guess, if the truth was known, the crawfish stand better with me than the lobsters."Mr. Chase's fingers closed lightly over hers."I believe you mean what you say," he said."You bet your life I do!" she said, emphasizing each word with a buff. She looked up, met his insistent eyes, and laughed in a high, unnatural pitch. "Other hand, please," she whispered.When he finally rose to depart she rose with him, holding her nosegay at arm's-length and tilting her head."It's almost time for wood violets, Miss Sprunt. I'll try to get you some.""Oh, don't trouble, Mr. Chase; these hothouse ones are beauties.""I--I'll be dropping in soon again, Miss Sprunt. I think I'll take your advice and be more regular about my manicures.""Oh," she said, in some confusion, "I--I didn't mean that. You can care for them in between times yourself."At the Sixth Avenue exit he paus...