do so. When he threw them around my neck he told me that they were my own
--so he did. How can a woman give up such a present--from a husband--who
is dead? As to the value, I care nothing. But I won't do it." By this time
Lady Eustace was in tears, and had so far succeeded as to have produced
some amount of belief in Miss Macnulty's mind.

"If they are your own, they can't take them from you," said Miss Macnulty.

"They shan't. They shall find that I've got some spirit left." Then she
reflected that a real Corsair lover would protect her jewels for her--
would guard them against a score of Camperdowns. But she doubted whether
Lord Fawn would do much in that way. Then the door was opened, and Lord
Fawn was announced. It was not at all unusual with Lord Fawn to call on
the widow at this hour. Mount Street is not exactly in the way from the
India Office to the House of Lords; but a hansom cab can make it almost in
the way. Of neglect of official duty Lord Fawn was never guilty; but a
half hour for private business or for relaxation between one stage of duty
and another--can any Minister grudge so much to an indefatigable follower?
Lady Eustace had been in tears as he was announced, but the light of the
room was so low that the traces of them could hardly be seen. She was in
her Corsair state of mind, divided between her jewels and her poetry, and
caring not very much for the increased rank which Lord Fawn could give
her. "The Sawab's case is coming on in the House of Commons this very
night," he said, in answer to a question from Miss Macnulty. Then he
turned to Lady Eustace. "Your cousin, Mr. Greystock, is going to ask a
question in the House."

"Shall you be there to answer him?" asked Miss Macnulty innocently.

"Oh dear, no. But I shall be present. A peer can go, you know." Then Lord