of pleasanter topics. The two men dined together, and sat by the fire
afterwards with a bottle of claret between them, smoking their cigars,
and talking till late into the night.

It was not to be supposed that Adela Branston's name could be omitted
entirely from this confidential talk.

"I have seen nothing and heard very little of her while I have been
away," John Saltram said, in answer to a question of Gilbert's; "but I
called in Cavendish-square this afternoon, and was fortunate enough to
find her at home. She wants me to dine with her next Sunday, and I half
promised to do so. Will you come too? I know that she would be glad to
see you."

"I cannot see that I am wanted, John."

"But I tell you that you are wanted. I wish you to go with me. Mrs.
Branston likes you amazingly, if you care to know the opinion of so
frivolous a person."

"I am very much flattered by Mrs. Branston's kindly estimate of me, but I
do not think I have any claim to it, except the fact that I am your
friend. I shall be happy to go with you on Sunday, if you really wish
it."

"I do really wish it. I shall drop Mrs. Branston a line to say you will
come. She asked me to bring you whenever I had an opportunity. The
dinner-hour is seven. I'll call for you here a few minutes before. I
don't promise you a very lively evening, remember. There will only be
Adela, and a lady she has taken as her companion."