Perkins. That's who I am.

Bradley. When did you go into short trousers?

Perkins (with a feeble laugh, glancing at his clothes). 0h, these--ha, ha! I'm taking up the bicycle. Even if it weren't for theexhilaration of riding, it really is a luxury to wear these clothes. 0ldflannel shirt, very aged coat, very aged pair of trousers shortened to the knee,and golf stockings. I've had these golf stockings two decades, andnever had a chance to wear 'em till now.

Bradley. You've got it bad, haven't you? How many lessons have youhad?

Perkins. None yet. Fact is, just got my wheel--that's it over thereby the door--pneumatic tires, tool-chest, cyclometer, lamp--all for ahun.

Bradley (with a laugh). How about life-insurance? Do they throw ina policy for that? They ought to.