"That is just Dorcas's natural, normal behavior with all men.  She used it toward you, too - although I suppose you were too preoccupied elsewhere to realize it.  Never mind.  Just be sure that when Miriam shows you her ring - the size of a roe's egg and about as scarce - be sure to be surprised.  And I'm damned if I'll sort out which two are spawning, so that you'll be certain to be surprised.  Just remember that they are pleased about it... which is why I tipped you off ahead of time, so that you wouldn't make the mistake of thinking that they thought they were 'caught.' They don't.  They weren't.  They're smug." Jubal sighed. "But I'm not.  I'm getting too old to enjoy the patter of little feet when I'm busy... and contrariwise, I won it lose perfect secretaries - and kids that I love, as you know - for any reason if I can possibly induce them to stay.  But I must say that this household has become steadily more disorganized ever since the night Jill kicked Mike's feet out from under him.  Not that I blame her and I don't think you do, either."