We spoke finally of gambling; and he laughed heartily when I made mild fun
of the gambling scare that was just then being written up in all the
papers and magazines.

"So you don't believe in baccarat tables in London!" he said. "Very good!
We shall see. After we have supped we shall see!"

We stayed until long past closing time. Mr. Parker continued in the
highest good humor, but Eve was subject at times to moods of either
indifference or depression. The more intimate note which had once or twice
crept into our conversation she seemed now inclined to deprecate. She
avoided meeting my eyes. More than once she glanced toward the clock.

"Haven't you an appointment to-night, father?" she asked, almost in an
undertone.

"Sure!" Mr. Parker answered readily. "I have an appointment, and I am
going to take you and Mr. Walmsley along."

"I am delighted to hear it!" I exclaimed quickly.

"I'll teach you to make fun of the newspapers," Mr. Parker went on. "No
gambling hells in London, eh? Well, we shall see!"

To my great relief Eve made no spoken objection to my inclusion in the
party. When at last we left a large and handsome motor car was drawn up
outside waiting for us.

"A taxicab," Mr. Parker explained, "is of no use to me--of no more use
than a hansom cab. I have to keep a car in order to slip about quietly.