The full dress uniforms of the military and naval aides on duty added to the brilliancy of the scene. The Marine Band, their scarlet coats making a vivid touch of color against the huge fountain with its myriad sprays of water, were stationed on a raised platform far down the lawn. The southern breeze carried the stirring airs they were playing to Douglas' ears and sent the hot blood dancing in his veins. Or was it the sight of Eleanor Thornton, looking radiantly beautiful, which set his heart throbbing in a most unusual manner? Some telepathy seemed to tell her of his presence, for she looked around, caught his eye, and bowed. He had kept moving as the guests ahead of him advanced, and the next moment he was being presented to the President by the military aide stationed in attendance at the latter's elbow. He had but time to receive a hearty handshake and a cordial word of welcome from the President and the "first lady of the land," for the other guests were waiting impatiently to greet them, and he could not loiter. "Douglas Hunter! as I'm a sinner!" A hearty slap on the shoulder emphasized the words, and Douglas wheeled around and found Captain Chisholm, of the British Royal Artillery, addressing him. "The idea of your being here and not letting me know, old chap," he added reproachfully, as they shook hands. "I didn't know you were in town," declared Douglas. "Thought you were still in Paris." "I was transferred to the embassy in Washington three months ago. Upon my word, Douglas, I took you for a ghost when I first saw you. I was under the impression that you were stationed at Tokio." "So I am; I am only here on leave of absence." The Englishman's eyebrows went up. "I had to attend to some Washington property, which has been recently left me. This is my native heath, you know." "I wasn't aware of it," dryly; "but then, Douglas, you are perpetually springing surprises, like your nation, on us benighted foreigners." "Anything to drink around here?" inquired Douglas. "I am as thirsty as a herring." "There is some excellent champagne punch, come along," and the tall Englishman led the way to a long table placed under the trees near the tennis courts, where refreshments were being served. They corraled a colored waiter, and soon were sipping iced punch as they stood at some distance from the crowd about the table and watched the animated scene. "I didn't want to come to Washington," acknowledged Chisholm, after a moment's silence, "but now, I'd hate to leave it. The people are delightful, and I have never met with such genuine hospitality." "You are right; Washington people never forget you. Go away for ten years, and on your return you will be greeted just as warmly as to-day."