many women with beautiful faces and compelling eyes and alluring voices
and charming ways, but with none had they been so blended as in Mrs.
Clephane.

He did not know a thing as to her history--he did not even know whether
she was married, a widow, or a divorcée. Whatever she was, he was
willing to accept her as genuine--until she was proven otherwise.

All of which would indicate that she had made something of an impression
on Harleston--who was neither by nature nor by experience impressible
and, in the diplomatic game, had about as much sentiment as a granite
crag. In fact, with Harleston every woman who appeared in the
diplomatic game lay under instant and heavy suspicion.

Mrs. Clephane was the first exception.




X

SKIRMISHING


On the slender chance of finding Mrs. Clephane, Harleston made another
tour of the rooms and corridor on the first floor.

It was without avail--save that he noticed Madeline Spencer and her
escort were still at dinner. They did not see him--and he was very well
content. Later he would want a word with them--particularly with her;