back a la vierge with a rather saintly expression, and was
apparently just cut off in a straight line at the back. This was
quite peculiar-looking enough--and in conjunction with a young,
silky beard, trimmed into a sharp point with the look of an
archaic Greek statue, he presented a type not easily forgotten.
The features were regular and his eyes were singularly calm and
wise and blue.

It seemed incredible that such an almost grotesque arrangement of
coiffure should adorn the head of a man in modern evening dress.
It should have been on some Byzantine saint. However, there he
was, and entirely unconcerned at the effect he was producing.

The waiters, who probably knew his name and station, precipitated
themselves forward to serve him, and with leisurely mien he
ordered a recherche dinner and a pint of champagne.

Stella Rawson was much interested and so were her uncle and aunt.

"What a very strange-looking person," Mrs. Ebley said. "Of what
nation can he be? Erasmus, have you observed him?"

Canon Ebley put on his pince-nez and gave the newcomer the benefit
of a keen scrutiny.

"I could not say with certainty, my dear. A northerner evidently--
but whether Swedish or Danish it would be difficult to determine,"
he announced.

"He does not appear to know he is funny-looking," Stella Rawson