Draconmeyer followed with Lady Weybourne, and Selingman brought up the rear with the Comtesse d'Hausson, one of the most prominent leaders of the French colony in Monte Carlo, and a connection by marriage of Monsieur Douaille.
[Illustration: Mr.Grex, with his daughter and Lady Hunterleys on one side and Monsieur Douaille on the other, were in the van.] "A luncheon-party for Douaille," Hunterleys murmured, as he bowed, to his wife and exchanged greetings with some of the others.

"I wonder what they think of their neighbours! A little embarrassing for the chief guest, I am afraid." "I see your wife is in the enemy's camp," his companion observed.
"Draconmeyer is coming to speak to me.

This promises to be interesting." Draconmeyer and Selingman both came over to greet the English Minister.
Selingman's blue eyes were twinkling with humour, his smile was broad and irresistible.
"This should send funds up in every capital of Europe," he declared, as he shook hands.

"When Mr.Meredith Simpson takes a holiday, then the political barometer points to 'set fair'!" "A tribute to my conscientiousness," the Minister replied, smiling.

"I am glad to see that I am not the only hard-worked statesman who feels able to take a few days' holiday." Selingman glanced at the round table and beamed.
"It is true," he admitted.