John had slipped away to enjoy a cigarette without kittens, so he watched Gwen approach. He held up a hand in greeting. "No need to have brought anything. Charlie made enough food for everyone to eat and take home."

He came close and held the same hand out in an offer of a shake. "I'm John Everton. This is my house. Somewhere around here is Miss Charlotte Blaine, the organizer of this shindig. And you are, besides welcome, of course?"