he handed the pipe back to harry . she stood , and the dress fell right back over her flesh . i 'm sure i frowned a little at the odd request , but i agreed , seeing no reason not to let him have it . violet pushed her bowl toward him . even she had to admit that james could work a crowd well . she scowled , and made a small , quick gesture with her hand , some sign against evil , i thought . he 'd protected her earlier , and brutus liked him . 