asked.

"You may call a taxi," she replied; "and you may also come with me, if
you've nothing else to do."

"I'm too sorry. There has been a--mixup, and it is _impossible_ now,
Mrs. Cuthbert. _I have an important appointment at the Capitol._" Which
completed the recognition.

"When can you come to see me?" she asked. "I'm at the Chateau."

"I hope tomorrow, if I'm not suddenly tied up. You will be disengaged?"

"I've absolutely nothing on hand for tomorrow," she replied.

"Fine!" he returned. "I think I can manage to come about one and take
you out for luncheon."

"That will be charming!" she smiled.

"Where would you like to go--to the Rataplan?"

"Wherever you suggest," she replied. "I'll leave it to you where we
shall go and what we shall have."

"You're always considerate and kind," he averred. "If nothing untoward
occurs, it will be a fine chance to talk over old times, to explain
everything, and to arrange for the future."

"That will be charming!"