backs against the wooden wall, which was
panelled with paintings, very cheap, and not beautiful like those of the
restaurant. But the colours were harmonious; and on a low table stood a
blue dragon vase, holding in its mouth a single mariposa lily, such as
Angela had never seen before. Nick, standing beside her, whispered the
name of the white-and-crimson-spotted butterfly flower, and she smiled her
thanks, as the Chinese woman gave the boy's cap a pat, and tweaked the
American ribbon bow which tied the queue of the little girl. Both
children began to sing, keeping time with the snake-skinned imp.

The boy, who looked about two feet in height--no more--sang stolidly, with
an unchanging countenance, and no expression in the black beads which were
his eyes. He had on a primrose-coloured silk jacket, fastened across his
miniature chest with a loop. His blue pantaloons were bound round his
ankles, and his queue, mostly artificial, was braided with scarlet. The
girl, however--still smaller than her brother, or perhaps her
_fiance_--lifted her voice emotionally, singing very high, with the notes
of a musical insect, or thin silver strings stretched tight. Her eyes
rolled, she appeared self-conscious, though tired, and tinkled her silver
bracelets and anklets. She saw Angela enter, and admired the newcomer's
pearly skin and gold hair, which seemed to attract all the light in the
mean room. The child stared at her intently, taking in every detail of the
black hat and simple though perfect dress. But the singing insect was not
alone in her admiration.

Suddenly Angela felt a touch on her arm. She turned, and saw a Chinese
girl, who might have been sixteen or seventeen, smiling up at her. Angela
smiled too, and the girl kissed her own fingers, dimpling with pleasure,
her eyes sparkling. Then, with a nod of her head, and a gesture of the
hand, she invitingly indicated the half-open door.

Angela glanced at Nick. He was intent on the children and had not seen the
girl. Again the pretty creature nodded and beckoned, and Angela's
curiosity was fired. Apparently there was something which she alone was
privileged to see. She was amused and childishly flattered. It would be
fun, she thought, to steal away and give Mr. Hilliard a surprise when he
turned round to find her gone. Then, just when he was beginning to be
frightened, she would come back and tell him her small adventure--whatever
it might prove to be.

Cautiously she moved t