asked, affected to see in such an arrangement--had made them the fashion; and, then, Sir Allan was undeniably clever. Altogether, the idea was a great success for him. It had been one of Sir Allan's afternoon receptions, and, as usual, every patient on his list had paid him a visit. Having seen the last and most favored to her carriage, Sir Allan returned to his study with a slight smile on his handsome face, and the recollection of some delightfully confidential little speeches still tingling in his ears. For a moment he stood on the hearth rug recalling them, then he looked round the room and rang the bell. A servant appeared almost immediately. "Clear these things away, Morton," Sir Allan said, pointing to some dainty marvels of china and a Japanese teapot, which stood on a little round table between two chairs, "and bring me a loose jacket from my room. I am dining in Downing Street to-night, and shall not want to dress before eight." The man obeyed, and Sir Allan, lighting a thick Egyptian cigarette, took up a French novel, and stretched himself out in his easy chair. "You are not at home to anyone else this afternoon, sir?" the servant inquired before quitting the room. "Certainly not," Sir Allan answered, yawning. "Has anyone been inquiring for me?" "Yes, sir." "Lady or gentleman?" "Gentleman, sir--at least, I think so. He looks like one." "Any name?" "I didn't inquire, sir. I said that you were not at home; but, as he seemed very pressing, I promised to try and ascertain when you would be at liberty." "Ask him his name," Sir Allan directed. The man withdrew, and returned in a moment or two looking a little puzzled. "His name is Brown, sir--Mr. Bernard Brown." Sir Allan was seldom clumsy in little things, but at that moment he dropped the book which he had been reading upon the floor. The servant hastened toward it, but Sir Allan waved him away. He preferred to pick it up himself. "I'm afraid I've lost my place," he remarked, turning over the leaves. "You can show Mr. Brown in here, Morton," he added. "I may as well see what he wants." The man withdrew, and Sir Allan recommenced the chapter. Then the door was opened again, and the visitor was admitted. Sir Allan laid the paper knife carefully in his place, and shutting the book, rose from his chair. "Mr. Brown," he said, "I am very pleased to see you. Come and take a seat here." He stood up in an easy attitude upon the hearthrug, and pointed with a smile to the chair which his last visitor had occupied. But he did not offer his hand to Mr. Brown, nor did Mr. Brown appear to expect it.