"Why do you ask?" growled Dunn.

"Because she looks upset," answered Deede Dawson. "Oh, don't be shy
about it. Shall I give you a little good advice?"

"What?"

"Never shave."

"Why not?"

"Because that thick growth of hair hiding your face gives you an air
of mystery and romance no woman could possibly resist. You're a
perpetual puzzle, and to pique a woman's curiosity is the surest way
to interest her. Why, there are plenty of women who would marry you
simply to find out what is under all that hair. So never you shave."

"I don't mean to."

"Unless, of course, you have to--for purposes of disguise, for
example."

"I thought you were hinting that the beard itself was a disguise,"
retorted Dunn.

"Removing it might become a better one," answered Deede Dawson.
"You told me once you knew this part fairly well. Do you know
Wreste Abbey?"

Dunn gave his questioner a scowling look that seemed full of anger