Each hole was furnished with a neat brass peg, topped with ebony; and the man was lifting and replacing one of these pegs whilst he gravely watched the dial of an instrument that resembled a small clock.

A large straw hat concealed his head, and protected it from the rays that were streaming through the glass roof and open window.

The apparent triviality of his occupation, and his intentness upon it, amused Marian.

She stole into the laboratory, came close behind him, and said: "Since you have nothing better to do than play cribbage with yourself, I----" She had gently lifted up his straw hat, and found beneath a head that was not Lord Carbury's.

The man, who had cowered with surprise at her touch and voice, but had waited even then to finish an observation of his galvanometer before turning, now turned and stared at her.
"I _beg_ your pardon," said Marian, blushing vigorously.