"Doubtless he would be if he were living, but he has been dead some
time, Antoine."

"Alas, sir, the way of all flesh!"

"So it is, Antoine, but I refuse to grieve about it or get morbid over
it. I like to live and living I mean to live. What do you think of this
big room, Antoine? It has two beds in it, one for you and one for me,
and it's near enough to hear any call from the suite, occupied by
Mademoiselle Julie and your daughter."

"A wise precaution. Monsieur Scott thinks of everything."

"No, not of everything, Antoine, but the presence of Mademoiselle Lannes
is bound to sharpen the wits of anyone who is trying to take care of
her."

"Will you make your toilet here, sir? I will call Suzanne and we will
prepare dinner. When it is ready we will serve Mademoiselle Lannes and
you."

The stalwart Picard had become all at once the discreet and thoughtful
servant, and John felt a sudden sense of restfulness. Intense democrat
that he was, he realized in his moment of weariness that all could not
be masters.

"Thank you, Picard," he said gratefully. "The afternoon is wearing on
and I do need to shake myself up."