if by magic, supper could be served on the instant. Upwards of
thirty additional servants were engaged, all of whom were dressed in
our state livery, white, with silver epaulettes, and the Norcott crest
embroidered on the arm. These had been duly drilled by Mr. Cleremont,
and were not, he said, to be distinguished by the most critical eye from
the rest of the household.

Though there was movement everywhere, and everywhere activity, there
was little or no confusion. Cleremont was an adept in organization, and
already his skill and cleverness had spread discipline through the mass.
He was a despot, however, would not permit the slightest interference
with his functions, nor accept a suggestion from any one. "Captain
Hotham gives no orders here," I heard him say; and when standing under
my window, and I am almost sure seeing me, he said, "Master Digby has
nothing to do with, the arrangements any more than yourself."

I had determined that day to let nothing irritate or vex me; that I
would give myself up to unmixed enjoyment, and make this birthday a
memorable spot in life, to look back on with undiluted delight. I could
have been more-certain to carry out this resolve if I could only have
seen and spoken with Madame Cleremont; but she did not leave her room
the whole day. A distinguished hairdresser had arrived with a mysterious
box early in the morning, and after passing two hours engaged with her,
had returned for more toilet requirements. In fact, from the coming and
going of maids and dressmakers, it was evident that the preparations
of beauty were fully equal to those that were being made by cooks and
confectioners.

My father, too, was invisible; his breakfast was served in his own room;
and when Cleremont wished to communicate with him, he had to do so in
writing: and these little notes passed unceasingly between them till
late in the afternoon.

"What's up now?" I heard Hotham say, as Cleremont tore up a note in
pieces and flung the fragments from him with impatience.

"Just like him. I knew exactly how it would be," cried the other. "He
sent a card of invitation to the Duc de Bredar without first making a
visit; and here comes the Duc's chasseur to say that his Excellency has
not the honor of knowing the gentleman who has been so gracious as to
ask him to dinner."

"Norcott will have him out for the impertinence," said Hotham.

"And what will that do? Will the shooting him or the being shot make
this din