f the little tables under the
awning; of the pretty animated scene; but no, it might not be. Her
acquaintance with this man was too casual to allow her to accept his
hospitality in a public place.

"Thank you very much, but I think not. I would rather stay here."

"Well, at any rate," he said defiantly, "I've paid for my chair, and you
can't turn me out. Of course, you can move yourself."

"But I don't want to move. I like being here. I'm very glad to see
you. I should like very much to have tea, too. Oh, if you don't
understand I can't explain!" cried poor Claire helplessly; and instantly
the man's expression altered to one of sympathy and contrition.

"I do understand! Don't mind what I say. Naturally it's annoying, but
you're right, I suppose--you're perfectly right. I am glad, at any
rate, that you allow me to talk to you for a few minutes. You are
looking very well!" His eyes took her in in one rapid comprehensive
sweep, and Claire thanked Providence that she had put on her prettiest
dress. "I am glad that you are keeping fit. Did you enjoy your holiday
in Belgium?"

"How did you know I was in Belgium?"

He laughed easily, but ignored the question.

"You have good news of your mother, I hope?"

"Very good. She loves the life, and is very happy and interested, and
my stepfather writes that his friends refuse to believe in the existence
of a grown-up daughter. He is so proud of her youthful looks."

"How much did you tell her about your Christmas holidays?"

"All the nice bits! I don't approve of burdening other people!"

"Evidently not. Then there have been burdens? You've implied that!
Nothing by any chance, in which a man--fairly intelligent, and, in this
instance, keen after work--could possibly be of some use?"

The two pairs of eyes met, gazed, held one another steadily for a long
eloquent moment.

"Yes," said Claire.

Captain Fanshawe bent forward quickly, holding his stick between his
knees. The side of his neck had flushed a dull red colour. For several
moments he did not speak. Claire had a curious feeling that he could
not trust his voice.

"Good!" he said shortly at last. "Now may I hear?"

"I should like very much to ask you some questions about--about a man
whom I think you may know."

The grey eyes came back to her face, keen and surprised.

"Yes! Who is he?"

"A Major Carew. His Christian name is Frank. He belongs to your Club."

"I know the fellow.