The Chinese Parrot (Charlie Chan Detective Series) — page 177: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

a "Take to the lifeboats," he said. "I'm about to carve, and when I carve, it's a case of women and children first." Holley stared down at his dinner. "Looks like the same old chicken," he sighed. "What wouldn't I give for a little home cooking." "Ought to get married," smiled the girl. "Am I right, Mr. Eden?" Eden shrugged. "I've known several poor fellows who got married hoping to enjoy a bit of home cooking. Now they're back in the restaurants, and the only difference is they've got the little woman along. Double the check and half the pleasure." "Why all this cynicism?" asked Holley. "Oh, Mr. Eden is very much opposed to marriage," the girl said. "He was telling me today.” "Just trying to save her,” Eden explained. "By the way, do you know this Wilbur who's won her innocent, trusting heart?” "Wilbur?" asked Holley blankly. "He will persist in calling Jack out of his name," the girl said. "It's his disrespectful way of referring to my fiance." Holley glanced at the ring. "No, I don't know him," he announced. "I certainly congratulate him, though.” 177 comiicboeoe S CO