of you," Laverick answered. "As a matter of fact,
it is exceedingly kind, also, of Mademoiselle Idiale to insist
upon my coming here to-night. She did me the honor, as you may
know, of paying me a visit in the city this morning."

"So she did tell me," Mr. Lassen declared. "Mademoiselle is a
great woman of business. Most of her investments she controls
herself. She has whims, however, and it never does to contradict
her. She has also, curiously enough, a preference for the men of
affairs."

Laverick had reached that stage when he felt indisposed to discuss
Mademoiselle any longer with a stranger, even though that stranger
should be her manager. He nodded and took up his programme. As
he did so, the curtain rang up upon the next act. Laverick turned
deliberately towards the stage. The little man had paid his respects,
as he put it. Laverick felt disinclined for further conversation
with him. Yet, though his head was turned, he knew very well that
his companion's eyes were fixed upon him. He had an uncomfortable
sense that he was an object of more than ordinary interest to this
visitor, that he had come for some specific object which as yet he
had not declared.

"You will like to go round and see Mademoiselle," the latter
remarked, some time afterwards.

Laverick shook his head.

"I shall find another opportunity, I hope, to congratulate her."

"But, my dear sir, she expects to see you," Mr. Lassen protested.
"You are here at her invitation. It is usual, I can assure you."

"Mademoiselle Idiale will perhaps excuse me," Laverick said. "I
have an engagement immediately after the performance is over."

His companion muttered something which Laverick could not catch,
and made some excuse to leave the box a few minutes later. When
he returned, he carried a little, note which he presented to
Laverick with an air of triumph.

"It is as I said!" he exclaimed. "Mademoiselle expects you."

Laverick read the few lines which she had written.

I wish to see you after the performance. If you cannot come
round or escort me yourself, will you come later to the restaurant
of Luigi, where, as always, I shall sup. Do not fail.

Louise Idiale.

Laverick placed the note in his waistcoat pocket without immediate
remark. Later on he turned to his companion.

"Will you tell Mademoiselle Idiale," he said, "that I will do myself
the honor of coming t