leather pocketbook?" producing one from his pocket.

"No, sir, I believe not."

"I bought it at Vienna, which is noted for its articles of Russia
leather."

"It is very handsome, sir."

"So I think. By the way, you may like to look at my sleeve-buttons. They
are of Venetian mosaic. I got them myself in Venice last year."

"They are very elegant. You must have enjoyed visiting so many famous
cities."

"Yes; it is very interesting."

John Wade took up the evening paper, and Frank occupied himself with a
book from his patron's library. After a while John threw down the paper
yawning, and said that he had an engagement. Nothing else occurred that
evening which merits record.

Two days later Frank returned home in his usual spirits. But at the
table he was struck by a singular change in the manner of Mrs. Bradley
and John Wade. They spoke to him only on what it was absolutely
necessary, and answered his questions in monosyllables.

"Will you step into the library a moment?" said John Wade, as they arose
from the table.