Evening star., 1914-02-08
CHAPTER II. An Evening in the River


CHAPTER II. An Evening in the River
THOUGH San Marco is particularly gaudy tasse
on the fringe of the tourists south, it the
north that Richard NInot first turned One hour later
he made his appearance amid the gold braid and dignity
of the Plaza lobby.
The young man behind the desk-an exquisite crea-
ture done in Charles Dana Gibsons best manner
knew when to be afabe. He also knew when not to be
afabe. Upon Mino he turned the cold, fshy stare he
kept for such as were guests under his charge.
what is your business with Lord Harrowby?s he
inquired suspiciously.
"Since when, asked Minot brightly, have you been
in his Lordships confdence3
This the young mans cue to vince But hotel
clerks notoriously poor wncers at is customary
he began with perfect polse
Il know said Minot. "But, then, I'm sort of
friend Of his Lordship.'
"A sort of friend9 How well he lifted his eyebrowsl
Something like that. l believe I'm to be best
at his wedding"
All, yes that splendid young knew when to be
affable! Atfability swamped him "Boy!" he
cried take this gentleman card to Lord Harrowby.
A beboy In a Zenda uniform accepted the card, a1d
it upon a silver tray, glued it down with large New
York thumb, and strayed off down gilded corridors
shouting Lord Harrowby!"
Whereat all the pretty little debutantes who happened
to be decorating the at the moment felt their
pampered hearts go pltapat and, closing their
visions and dreamed dreams.
Lord Harrowby was at luncheon, and sent word for
Minot to Join him. Entering the gay dining room,
NIino saw the far end the blond and noble head he
sought. He threaded his way between the tables. Al
though he unusually attractive young man, he
had experienced anything like the array of stares
turned upon him he had gone feet. What the
devils the NATTER he asked himself Il to be the
cynosure of neighboring eyesand then sonei He did
dream that it because he passing through
dining of democrats to grasp the hand of Lord
@My dear fellow, I'm delighted, assure you7 Really,
Lord Harrowby face should have paid closer attention
to his words Just it failed ignorniniousy in the
matter of backing them up.
Thank you, Alinot replied. "Your Lorslip is no
doubt surprised at seeing me soon
"Well-er-not at all. Shall order luncheon?
@No, thanks. l had bite on the way up And
ready. Lord Harrowby, trust you are not going to
be annoyed by what | have tell you"
His Lordship's face clouted and worry entered the
mild blue eyes Il hope there's nothing wrong about
the policy
Nothing whatever Lord Harrowby Mr.. Jephson
trusts you implicitly.
$50 perceived this morning | was deeply touched"
at was-er-touching AIinot smiled bit Gym
ically Understanding you do how MIR. Jephson
feels toward you you will realize that is in no sense
reflection you that Office viewing this matter
in purely business light, has decided that someone
must go to San Marco with you someone who will pro-
tect Mr.. Jephsons interests
your Office said his Lortship, rejecting. "You
mean Mr.. Thacser, don't you,"
Could it be that the fellow was not so slow as he
seemed?
MIR. Thacker is the head of Office smiled
Alinot. at has been thought best that someone go
with you, Lord Harrowby, someone who will work