Apollonia's coruscating conversation. Then there was a rather
fierce-looking Red Ribbon, medalled as well as be-starred, and the
Red Ribbon's wife, with a blushing daughter, in spite of her
parentage not yet accustomed to stand fire. A partner and his
unusually numerous family had the pleasure also of seeing Lothair
for the first time, and there were no less than four M.P.'s, one of
whom was even in office.

"Apollonia was stating to Lothair, with brilliant perspicuity, the
reasons which quite induced her to believe that the Gulf Stream had
changed its course, and the political and social consequences that
might accrue.

"'The religious sentiment of the Southern races must be wonderfully
affected by a more rigorous climate,' said Apollonia. 'I cannot
doubt,' she continued, 'that a series of severe winters at Rome
might put an end to Romanism.

"'But is there any fear that a reciprocal influence might be
exercised on the Northern nations?' inquired Lothair. 'Would there
be any apprehension of our Protestantism becoming proportionately
relaxed?'

"'Of course not,' said Apollonia. 'Truth cannot be affected by
climate. Truth is truth alike in Palestine and Scandinavia.'

"'I wonder what the Cardinal would think of this,' said Lothair,
'who, you tell me, is coming to you this evening.'

"'Yes, I am most interested to see him, though he is the most