"I should fancy very few army people would choose that roundabout way from Manila when they can come direct by transport, and have the ship to themselves." "Well--er--yes; certainly, certainly," answered the helpless master of the house, dodging now the warning and reproach in the eyes of his wiser mate at the other end of the table. The crack of a coachman's whip and the swift beat of trotting hoofs on the graveled road in front could be heard as he faltered on. The gleam of cab lights came floating through the northward shrubbery. "Except, of course, when they happen to be--er--already, well, you know, at Hongkong or Nagasaki," he lamely concluded. There was an instant hurried glance exchanged between Gray and Prime. Then up spoke in silvery tone their hostess: "Other officers, you know, are ordered home. We have just heard to-day that Colonel Frost comes very soon. His health seems quite shattered. I believe--you knew--of them--slightly that is to say, Miss Prime, did you not?" But even with her words she cast an anxious, furtive glance along the dim reach of the _lanai_, for the pit-a-pat of footfalls, the swish of feminine draperies was distinctly heard. Two dainty, white-robed forms came floating into view, and, with changing color, their hostess suddenly arose and stepped forward to meet them. Just one second of silence intervened, then, all grace and gladness, smiles and cordiality, both her little hands outstretched, Mrs. Frank Garrison came dancing into their midst, her sister more timidly following.