. And our own people are worse. Tell me: at home, when a
gentleman talks to you, does he keep his cigar in his mouth and merely
resonate through his nose? Or is that a mannerism acquired through
travelling?

'But enough, old boy. This has covered too vast an acreage of thought
already. Oh yes--about my writing. I have been doing very little
recently, but can feel the tide rising to that point where it will of
necessity overflow the confines of my lethargy. I have had the honour
of meeting several of the foremost writers here, and there is no
question about it, they are doing excellent work. But I wish that I
could feel a little more idealism in their work. The whole country
here is parched for the lack of Heaven's moisture of idealism. People
must have an objective in their lives, and the Arts should combine with
the Church in creating it.

'Of course, there is an amazing amount of drivel written over here,
most of which, I think, would never get past the office-boy of an
American publication. The English short story and the English
music-hall are things to be avoided.

'Before I end, have you seen Gerard Van Derwater recently? I heard
that he joined the diplomatic service at Washington after leaving
college. I often think of him with his strange pallor, but suggestion
of brooding strength. Did it ever strike you that every one respected
him, and yet he really never had a close friend? It always seemed to
me that he carried about with him a sense of impending tragedy. Find
out what he is doing, and let me know.

'Well, old boy, in another few months I shall pack up and return to
America, and once more woo the elusive editor. I am looking forward to
our sitting by your fireside and, through the cloud of tobacco-smoke,
weaving again our old romances. I am really proud of you, Edgerton,
and know that you must be a tremendous power for good.

'A letter any time addressed c/o The Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall,
will find me.--As ever, your old chum,

'AUSTIN SELWYN.'

* * * * * *

The writer addressed an envelope, inserted the letter, sealed and
stamped it, then yawned lazily. Gathering his outgoing correspondence
and the old letters, he took his hat and sauntered into the street,
conscious of having done his duty--also that he had unearthed some
thoughts the existence of which he had not suspected beneath the
surface shrubbery of everyday existence.

CH