say to Captain Claiborne. He knew that the Claibornes were a family of
distinction; the father was an American diplomat and lawyer of wide
reputation; the family stood for the best of which America is capable,
and they were homeward bound to the American capital where their social
position and the father's fame made them conspicuous.

Armitage put down his cigar and bent toward Claiborne, speaking with
quiet directness.

"Captain Claiborne, I was introduced to you at Geneva by Mr. Singleton.
You may have observed me several times previously at Venice, Borne,
Florence, Paris, Berlin. I certainly saw you! I shall not deny that I
intentionally followed you, nor"--John Armitage smiled, then grew grave
again--"can I make any adequate apology for doing so."

Claiborne looked at Armitage wonderingly. The man's attitude and tone
were wholly serious and compelled respect. Claiborne nodded and threw
away his cigar that he might give his whole attention to what Armitage
might have to say.

"A man does not like to have his sister forming the acquaintances of
persons who are not properly vouched for. Except for Singleton you know
nothing of me; and Singleton knows very little of me, indeed."

Claiborne nodded. He felt the color creeping into his cheeks consciously
as Armitage touched upon this matter.

"I speak to you as I do because it is your right to know who and what I
am, for I am not on the _King Edward_ by accident but by intention, and I
am going to Washington because your sister lives there."