respected, even admired, in the class to which she had climbed. Here
was the woman who had won her way into continental society as have
few of her countrywomen. To none save a cold, discerning man from
her own land was she transparent. Lord Bob, however, had a faint
conception of her aims, her capacity.

As they walked on, Quentin scarcely took his eyes from Miss
Garrison's face. He was wearing down the surprise that the
sweetheart of his boyhood had inspired, by deliberately seeking
flaws in her beauty, her figure, her manner. After a time he felt
her more wonderful than ever. Lord Bob joined the party, and Quentin
stopped a second to speak to him. As he did so Prince Ugo was at
Miss Garrison's side in an instant.

"So she is the girl that damned Italian is to elevate?" said Mr.
Quentin to himself. "By George, it's a shame!" He did not see Lord
Bob and his wife exchange a quick smile of significance.

As they all reached the corner, Quentin asked: "Are you in London
for long, Dorothy?" Lady Frances thought his tone a trifle eager.

"For ten days or so. Will you come to see me?" Their eyes met and he
felt certain that the invitation was sincerely given. "Lady Marnham
is having some people in to-morrow afternoon. Perhaps you'll come
then," she added, and Phil looked crestfallen.

"I'll come," he said. "I want to tell you the story of my past life.
You didn't know I'd been prime minister of a South American
republic, did you?"