She seemed to be 'up to' a good deal, too; acknowledged that she made quite a little book on the Derby and Ascot--was above taking a bet on a favourite in kid gloves only; and told in the prettiest way how skilfully, and with a little spice of naughtiness, she had, on more than one occasion, learned the secrets of the stables, and of the trials in the early morning gallops; and actually how she had persuaded people to lay five to one, when the printed lists said 'evens,' to square herself in the end; and then she laughed, and said it was so odd to have her husband travelling in the next carriage, and thus quite separated from her; but at Buchen she would rejoin him. 'Do you travel much?' she asked, after a pause. 'Well; yes.' 'Who does not nowadays!' 'My profession----' 'The army?' 'Yes; I have just returned from India.' 'To one who has seen all the wonders and marvels there--the rock-hewn temples, the marble palaces and mosques, the vast plains and mighty mountains of India--how tame you must think these level landscapes and little German villages!' 'They are peaceful scenes, and most English in aspect.' 'But all this part of Europe is quite like the midland counties. You were, of course, with the Line in India; but--you have been in the Guards?' 'Yes,' replied Chute, becoming thoroughly interested now. 'Ah! I discovered that from a slight remark you made about the Derby.' 'Who the deuce can this woman be, who picks all my past life out of me?' thought Chute, as they mutually recalled the names of many men of 'the Brigade.' 'Do you know Major Desmond?' she asked. 'Slightly,' replied Chute, while a shade crossed his face. She was quick enough to perceive it, so the subject was not pursued; and now the train glided into the station. She bowed politely to Chute, who endeavoured to open the door for her; but it was locked fast, and the guard was at the other end of the train. A sound was heard, like the clanking of a heavy chain, as some carriages were uncoupled; and the train again began to move. Chute called and gesticulated to some men on the platform. 'Sitzen sie ruhig!' was the only response. 'Sit still! the train is in motion!' And once more they were sweeping with increased speed, through the open country. The carriages for the branch line had been left behind, with the lady's husband, suite and baggage; and she borne helplessly off by the express for Lubeck.