to leave behind. Each couple leaves something in
remembrance of their stay."
55 North had noticed all the different trinkets about the house
....THOUSANDS of them! He reached up and took one of the Command tags
off his shoulder. Not replacing the catch, he pushed the stud into the
doorframe. The tag held fast. "Perfect! laughed Spearina.
56 Their walk back to the door was not quite as leisurely as the one to
the house, but it was still enjoyable. When they returned to North's
quarters,
North left Spearina with his other mates. "I'm sure," he announced,
"they'll want to know every detail of the last few days, and I DO have
to check up on things. I'll be back by suppertime."
57 For the next three months’ things worked into a steady routine
...Spearina getting used to life in the house, North getting used to
her cooking. The Peepians liked far more spice than did either the
Havens or the Hashons, and the first meal she made nearly burned his
mouth out! She cut back on the ingredients the next time, somewhat
embarrassed. A happy medium was found, and the family soon came to
enjoy her meals, which delighted the new mate.
58 Spearina's knowledge of the Peepian Leaders and her acquaintances
with them was also helpful. Few men could resist her sweet charms, and
if North could not persuade someone to do something Spearina could. All
seemed quite good.
59 North noticed that all three women were getting excited about
something, and whispering behind his back. "Stop conspiring, you
three!" he would warn. "Whatever you're up to, I'll find out sooner or
later!"
60 One afternoon North had just arrived at the beam tube station when
the Operator came over to him. "Lord North! " he warned, "Lord Spearos
arrived a few moments ago and seemed very upset. I believe he is headed