"I have a few instructions to give you, to which I must beg your careful attention." He looked up, meeting Etta's somewhat sullen gaze with a smile of triumph.
"It is essential," he went on, "that I be invited to Osterno.

I do not want to stay there long; indeed, I do not care to.

But I must see the place.

I dare say you can compass the invitation, madame ?" "It will be difficult." "And therefore worthy of your endeavor.

I have the greatest regard for your diplomatic skill.