his mental and social inferiority, his lack of warrant in offering her marriage. But his great, rugged manhood wanted her, the woman, with an imperious, savage need which took all the training of civilisation to repress. Viviette alone in her maidenly splendour, he could have fought it down. But the vision of another man entering, light-hearted and debonair, into those precincts maddened him, let loose primitive instincts of hatred and revenge, and robbed him of all interest in the toys with which men used to slay each other centuries ago. Austin, being nearest the door, opened it for the ladies to pass out. Viviette, going out last, looked up at him with one of her witch's glances. "Don't be very long," she said, Before Austin could resume his seat Dick leaped up. "Austin, look here; I've something to say to you." "Well?" said Austin. Dick pulled out a cigar, bit the end off, and finding that he had ripped the outer skin, threw it angrily into the fireplace. "My dear old boy," said Austin, "what in the name of all that's neurotic is the matter?" "I've something to say to you," Dick repeated. "Something that concerns myself, my life. I must throw myself on your generosity." Austin, his head full of philanthropy, thrust his hands into his pockets and smiled indulgently on Dick. "Don't, old chap, I know all about it. Viviette has told me everything." Dick, his head full of passion, staggered in amazement. "Viviette has told you?" "Of course; why shouldn't she?" Dick groped his way to the door. It were better for both that he should not stay. Austin, left alone, laughed, not unkindly. Dear old Dick! It was a shame to tease him--but what a different expression his honest face would wear to-morrow! When the maid brought in his coffee he sipped it with enjoyment, forgetful for once of its lack of excellence.