When Random appeared at the door, she was just leaving the desk to greet him, and no one would have taken the smiling, plump, well-preserved woman for the creature who lately had looked so haggard and careworn.
"I am glad to see you, Sir Frank," said Mrs.Jasher, nodding in a familiar manner.

"Sit down in this very comfortable chair, and Jane shall bring you some coffee and kummel." "No, thank you," said Random in his usual stiff way, but very politely.
"I have just left the mess, where I had a good dinner." Mrs.Jasher nodded, and sank again on the couch, which was opposite the chair which she had selected for her visitor.
"I see you are in mess kit," she said gayly; "quite a glorified creature to appear in my poor little parlor.

Why are you not with Donna Inez?
I have heard all about your engagement from Lucy.

She was here to-day with Senorita De Gayangos." "So I believe," said Random, still stiffly; "but you see I was anxious to come and see you." "Ah!" said Mrs.Jasher equably, "you heard that I was ill.

Yes; I have been in bed ever since yesterday afternoon, until a couple of hours ago.