rdinary mortal's footsteps. Dainty and delicately fashioned
as the shells strewn along the beach, they were modeled only to listen
to the gods or re-echo the music of the murmuring sea." Apologetically
he added:

"But I'm afraid I intrude. Possibly you discuss family affairs----"

A look of annoyance crossed Helen's face. Quickly withdrawing her
hand, she said:

"Oh, not at all. We were only talking about my husband. You know he
sailed for South Africa two weeks ago. This is Mr. Steell, Signor
Keralio. I think you know my sister. Mr. Parker--Signor Keralio."

The old gentleman nodded affably, and, putting on his glass,
scrutinized the newcomer narrowly. The president of the
Americo-African Mining Company had always made it a point not to
neglect any chance introduction. He had no idea who the visitor was,
but he looked prosperous. Possibly with a little careful manipulation,
he might be induced to invest in some A. A. M. stock. Holding out his
hand, he said affably:

"Signor Keralio---- Let me see. Where have I heard that name before?"

Ray came to the rescue.

"Signor Keralio is the well-known fencing master."

A look of disappointment came over the president's face. Only a
fencing master? Ugh! He was hardly worth bothering about. He
wondered whether the business were profitable and if all fencing
masters dressed like millionaires and had such polished manners. Helen
explained:

"Signor Keralio is a friend of my husband. Kenneth enjoys fencing, and
Signor Keralio is his teacher."

"Oh, yes, to be sure," smiled Mr. Parker. "Capital idea--splendid
exercise. I'd try it myself, only I'm afraid I'd do my adversary some
injury."

The Italian gave a low chuckle. With veiled irony, he said:

"Monsieur is right. He no doubt has a good eye, a supple wrist. An
encounter might be very unpleasant for his opponent."

Ray, unable to control her mirth, hastily beat a retreat, followed more
leisurely by Mr. Steell, and taking refuge at the far end of the room
sat down at the piano, and began to play softly a Chopin nocturne.

Waving the newcomer to a seat, Mr. Parker offered him a cigar, which
the fencing master, with a courteous bow, asked his hostess' permission
to smoke.

"By all means," she said, "and with your permission I'll leave you
gentlemen alone a few moments. I have a letter to finish. It must go
tonight to catch the boat."

"It's to your husband, I wager," said Keralio, with