They play remarkably well, I believe, from what other people tell me; but I am not a musical man myself." Horatio Paget accepted the invitation as cordially as it was given.

It is astonishing how genial and friendly these men of the world can be at the slightest imaginable notice.

One can fancy the striped tigers of Bengal shaking paws in the jungle, the vultures hob-nobbing in a mountain cleft over the torn carcass of a stag, the kites putting their beaks together after dining on a nest of innocent doves.
"Then we shall expect to see you at sharp six," said Mr.Sheldon, "and your friend Mr.Hawkehurst with you, of course." After this the two gentlemen departed.

Valentine shook hands with Diana, and took a more ceremonious leave of Charlotte.

George Sheldon threw away his chewed geranium-stalk in order to bid good evening to the visitors; and the little party walked to the garden-gate together.
"That Sheldon seems a very clever fellow," said Captain Paget, as he and Valentine walked towards the Park, which they had to cross on their way to Chelsea, where the Captain had secured a convenient lodging.