found one with an appetite." 

 The manager bowed with a gesture of perfect comprehension. 

 "And while you are wrestling with the problem," said Tony, "I should like to use the telephone if I may." 

 He was shown into the private office, where, in response to polite and repeated requests, a lady at the Exchange eventually found leisure to connect him with Shepherd's Oyster Bar. 

 "Is Mr. 'Tiger' Bugg there?" he inquired. 

 The man who had answered the call departed to have a look round, and then returned with the information that so far Mr. Bugg had not put in an appearance. 

 "Well, if he does come," said Tony, "will you tell him for me—Sir Antony Conway—that I shall not be able to join him. He can pick up the car at the R.A.C." 

 The man promised to deliver the message, and ringing off, Tony strolled back through the restaurant to the place where he had parted from his charming if slightly mysterious companion. He met her just coming out of the cloak-room. 

 "Oh, I hope I haven't kept you very long," she said penitently. 

 Tony looked down into the clear amber eyes that were turned up to his own, and thought that she was even prettier than he had at first imagined. 

 "I have only just this moment finished telephoning," he said.  "The Central Exchange are like the gods. They never hurry." 

 She laughed softly, and then, as the waiter on duty opened the door with a low bow, they walked forward into the restaurant. 

 M. Gustave, more affable than ever, came up to conduct them to their table. 

 At the sight of the charming arrangement in maidenhair and narcissi which decorated the centre, the girl gave a little exclamation of pleasure. 

 "But how beautiful!" she said.  "I never knew English restaurants——" 

 She stopped short as though she suddenly thought the remark were better unfinished. 

 Tony took no notice of her slight embarrassment. "I am glad you like flowers," he said.  "It's such a nice primitive, healthy taste. Since Mr. Chamberlain died I believe I am 

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