On the morning following the conclave in Belgrave Square, the Right Honourable Mervin Brown received two extremely distinguished visitors in Downing Street.

It was doubtful whether the Prime Minister was altogether at his best.

There was a certain amount of irritability rankling beneath his customary air of bonhommie.

He motioned his callers to take chairs, however, and listened attentively to the few words of introduction which his secretary thought necessary.
"This is General Dumesnil, sir, of the French Staff, and Monsieur Pouilly of the French Cabinet.

They have called according to appointment, on Government business." "Very glad to see you, gentlemen," was the Prime Minister's brisk welcome.