The glowing face of a celebrated Parisian _danseuse_ laughed at him from over the mantelpiece.

Arnold was engaged in examining it when Sabatini entered.
"A thousand apologies, my dear Mr.Chetwode," he said softly.

"I see you pass your time pleasantly.

You admire the divine Fatime ?" "The face is beautiful," Arnold admitted.

"I am afraid I was a few minutes early.