reful eye for the
other two red roses. I could not but notice, however, that we were
attracting much attention; by reason, I assumed, of our striking
similarity; and a number of times Moore replied wittily to some
pleasant banter flung at us. I should say, perhaps, that the grounds
were so thoroughly lighted with electricity that they were as bright as
day; the lamps being so carefully distributed that there were,
practically, no shadows.

Presently, on the bank of a miniature lake near the farthest wall, we
came upon three women and a man.

"The Dromios," said one of the women.

"Satan's Twins," laughed another.

"A pair of black Knaves," echoed the third.

The man laughed, but said nothing.

I put my hand through Moore's arm and swung him around.

"Why not add us to your own Knave and then give us a Queen apiece?" I
asked.

She, who had spoken last, clapped her hands.

"Delicious!" she exclaimed. "Will monsieur be my Knave?"

The voice was very soft and musical, and I saw Moore glance quickly at
her.

"That will I, my lady," said I; and stepped forward and kissed her
hand; then drew it through my arm.

"Who chooses the other black Knave?" asked Moore, sweeping off his hat,
and bowing with it held across his heart. I noted he had changed his
voice.

"I do," said she who had styled us "Satan's Twins;" and she gave him
her hand.

He, who had been with them, shrugged his shoulders and turned to her
who had spoken first, "Mademoiselle," said he, "I am waiting to be
chosen."

She laughed. "Mademoiselle will be deeply honored," she said, "if
monsieur will deign to accept the only Queen that is left."

It chanced that none of these four Masques had gone through the
reception room while we were behind the curtains, so, of course, I had
not the slightest notion of their identity. It was quite possible
Moore would be able to make a good guess; and, I fancied, he had
already placed my Queen--she of the musical laugh. However, so long as
they did not discover me, it mattered not at all who they were. I
could trust Moore to get me away from them if he found it wise. So I
devoted myself to my companion.

She was of good height and rather slender, and wore a blue gown, with
powdered hair. Her face and ears were completely hidden by her mask,
but, judging from the bit of neck that was visible, and other
indications, she was not over twenty-five. I let her pick the way, and
we led the others slowly a