was left alone to pursue, as he supposed, the Order of the
Crescent. On the contrary, he found that the Order of the
Crescent was pursuing him. He had not appreciated that, from
underlings and backstair politicians, an itinerant showman
like Stetson and the only son of an American Croesus would
receive very different treatment.

Within twenty-four hours a fat man with a blue-black beard
and diamond rings called with Osman to apologize for the
latter. Osman, the fat man explained--had been about to make
a fatal error. For Doctor Gilman he had asked the Order of
the Crescent of the fifth class, the same class that had been
given Stetson. The fifth class, the fat man explained, was
all very well for tradesmen, dragomans, and eunuchs, but as
an honor for a savant as distinguished as the friend of his.
Hallowell, the fourth class would hardly be high enough. The
fees, the fat man added, would Also be higher; but, he
pointed out, it was worth the difference, because the fourth
class entitled the wearer to a salute from all sentries.

"There are few sentries at Stillwater," said Peter; "but I
want the best and I want it quick. Get me the fourth class."

The next morning he was surprised by an early visit from
Stimson of the embassy. The secretary was considerably
annoyed.

"My dear Hallowell," he protested, "why the devil didn't you
tell me you wanted a decoration? Of course the State
department expressly forbids us to ask for one for ourselves,