He spoke ostensibly to Hank, as though oblivious of the new Editor’s presence. Mr. Nape rather enjoyed the experience than otherwise. "Or a Horace Greely," suggested the patriotic American. The Duke assented gravely. "There are certain conditions of service to be laid down," the Duke went on, "a definite policy to be followed, a——" "I am a conservative." Mr. Nape paused to observe the effect of his declaration. In the absence of an outburst of wild enthusiasm Mr. Nape hedged his bet, "but" he went on carelessly, "I am open to conviction." The Duke nodded. "We shall expect you to uphold the best traditions of current journalism," he said, "and I do not doubt but that you will succeed. You must be prepared to jump with the cat—you follow me?" "Yes," said Mr. Nape, who had not the least idea what cat was referred to. "You must be careful not to give offence to the friendly nations. I will supply you with a revised list of them from week to week—and deal lightly with the Borough Council. You may have a whack at the Czar now and again, but whatever you do, be careful that you do not annoy the advertisers. Keep an eye upon the Balkans, the shipbuilding programme of Germany, and the London County Council." "And Sir Harry Tanneur," added Hank. "Sir Harry Tanneur!" Mr. Nape was surprised. "You know him?" The detective became instantly his mysterious self. "He was a client of mine," he said briefly. Having so brusquely dismissed the subject in a manner that arrested all further investigation he regretted the fact. For he would have liked to explain the reading of the cutting at the concert, would have been delighted to accept recognition as the Duke’s good fairy. But the Duke did not pursue the subject. He rose from his chair and held out his hand. "Can you see me to-morrow?" he asked, "I have to arrange an office and a printer." Mr. Nape bowed. "In the meantime," said his grace, "you had better think out some leaders. "I have already thought of one," said the resourceful editor. "It is entitled _Noblesse Oblige_. "A most excellent title," said the Duke admiringly, "I’ll write the article myself." Mr. Nape went home deep in thought. The adoring little maid of all work, who met him at the door ventured to report. "I’ve done up the laboratory, sir; them bloodstains have come from the butcher’s, and the plumber’s fixed up the microscope all right." Mr. Nape stared at her vacantly. "Remove the rubbish," he said shortly. Emma gasped. "Beg pardon, sir?" she stammered. "The rubbish!" cried Roderick impatiently stamping his foot, "microscope and bloodstains and human hair—take them away." A thought struck him. "Run down to the stationers and get that book _How to Correct Printers’ Proofs_—it’s sixpence." The dazed girl accepted the coin. "Shall I bring it to your laboratory?" she asked feebly. Roderick turned a stern face upon her.