airy
greeting, as he coolly settled himself in an easy-chair.

"A trifle, thanks. How's yours? Help yourself," he said, as he pushed
the brandy-decanter towards him.

"Thanks. I feel in want of a pick-me-up," and Tommy helped himself to a
stiff nobbler of brandy.

Wyck and Tommy were fast friends, though of such opposite dispositions.
Wyck liked his companion's light and jovial manner, and Tommy liked
Wyck's pocket.

"What sort of a cruise did you have, Tommy, while you were away?" asked
Wyck.

"Ripping. A month in the Mediterranean is great fun, I can tell you,
when you are in good company."

"You're a lucky devil, Tommy."

"Yes, I suppose so. But judging from the charming little history you
gave the Club last night you've been going it during my absence."

"Yes, I flatter myself I've had some good fun."

"I say, Wyck, I want to know how you do it."

"My secret; eh, Tommy?"

"Exactly. Now out with it. I swear dumb."

"Then I'll tell you, Tommy. Only mind, should you let it out, I'll kill
you," said Wyck, fiercely.

"It's a bargain, Wyck," answered Tommy, calmly helping himself to a
cigar from Wyck's box, and, lounging back, prepared to listen.

"Last night I mentioned an episode with a Colonel's daughter. Well all
that is true. Smarting under the slight, and vowing vengeance, I left
Nice and travelled to India, where I had plenty of chums. One night I
attended a big kick-up given by one of the Rajahs in honour of some
affair or other. All sorts of amusements were provided, and amongst the
numerous entertainments was one by a mesmerist and hypnotist, who gave
very clever manifestations of his skill. I happened to be standing close
to him and he begged my assistance in one of his experiments. I, of
course, agreed and did exactly what he told me, trying to help him to
the best of my power; but to my surprise all his passes had no effect
whatever upon me. Another fellow was taken in my place and the feat was
accomplished successfully. This puzzled me and the first opportunity I
got I asked the mesmerist the reason. His answer was: 'You are as strong
if not stronger than I and, unconscious to yourself, you make yourself
antagonistic.' I laid awake all that night, his words running through
my head, and when I fell asleep I dreamt I was a great mesmerist. A
hunting party was organised for the next day and I was invited. We took
the train some distance, and then rode into the jungle. I became
separated from