I do not care to have my invitations criticised by my other guests,
whoever they may be. Now you understand the position, Mr. Courage."
"Perfectly," I answered. "I am exceedingly obliged to you for being so
frank with me."
"And we shall expect you at Lenox?"
"Without fail!" I answered confidently.
She passed down the stairs, humming a tune to herself, followed a few
steps behind by her maid. Her wonderfully arranged, fair hair was ablaze
with diamonds, her gown was more suitable to a London drawing-room than
the deck of a steamer. And yet she seemed neither over-jewelled nor
over-dressed. She had all the marvellous "aplomb" of her countrywomen,
who can transgress all laws of fashion or taste, and through sheer
self-confidence remain correct.
I felt a touch upon my shoulder and turned around. It was Mr. de Valentin
who stood there.
"I beg your pardon, Mr. Courage," he said, "but if you have nothing
particular to do for a few minutes, will you smoke a cigarette with me?"
"With pleasure!" I answered. "I was just going into the smoke-room.
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