"Wrong! of course not; he is likely to overwhelm you with civilities.
Pray don't refuse if he gives you an invitation to his soiree next
Saturday; I am going to it. One meets there the notabilities most
interesting to study,--artists, authors, politicians, especially those
who call themselves Republicans. He and the Prince agree in one thing;
namely, the cordial reception they give to the men who would destroy the
state of things upon which Prince and financier both thrive. Hillo!
here comes Lemercier on return from the Bois."

Lemercier's _coupe_ stopped beside the footpath. "What tidings of the
_Belle Inconnue_?" asked the Englishman. "None; she was not there. But
I am rewarded: such an adventure! a dame of the _haute volee_; I believe
she is a duchess. She was walking with a lap-dog, a pure Pomeranian. A
strange poodle flew at the Pomeranian, I drove off the poodle, rescued
the Pomeranian, received the most gracious thanks, the sweetest smile:
_femme superbe_, middle aged. I prefer women of forty. _Au revoir_, I am
due at the club."

Alain felt a sensation of relief that Lemercier had not seen the lady in
the pearl-coloured dress, and quitted the Englishman with a lightened
heart.




CHAPTER IV.

"_Piccola, piccola! com e cortese_! another invitation from M. Louvier
for next Saturday,--conversazione." This was said in Italian by an