"Remember that she is a lady, you know. Quite a lady."

"I am remembering that," replied the peer stolidly; "that's why I am
of the opinion just expressed."

Captain Bontnor gave a little sigh of relief, as if one of his many
difficulties had been removed. At the same time he glanced
furtively towards the inexpensive cigar, which was affording
distinct if somewhat exaggerated enjoyment.

Together they walked down the broad street and turned along the
quay. And here Captain Bontnor found himself talking quite easily
and affably about palm-trees and tramways, and other matters of
local interest, to the first peer whom he had ever seen in the
flesh.

Out of sheer good nature, and with a vague question in his mind as
to whether Miss Challoner knew what sort of help she had called in,
Lord Seahampton obtained the necessary information--no easy matter
in this country--and took the necessary ticket. Ticket and
information alike were obtained from a grave gentleman who smoked a
cigarette, and did the honours of his little office as if it had
been a palace--showing no desire to sell the ticket, and taking
payment as if he were conferring a distinct favour.

The steamer left that same afternoon, and Lord Seahampton sent his
protege back rejoicing to the hotel to pack up. Then the youthful
peer bestowed the remainder of the cheap cigar on an individual in
reduced circumstances and lighted one of his own. He was quite