happy to stay. My hand-bag, however, is at Swan's Hotel, and there's
very little in it."

"A trifling matter to send to New York for what you need," said the
admiral, mightily pleased to have a man to talk to who was not paid to
reply. "I'll have William bring the cart round and take you down."

"No, no; I had much rather walk. I'll turn up some time in the
morning, say luncheon, if that will be agreeable to you."

"As you please. Only, I should like to save you an unpleasant walk in
the dark."

"I don't mind. A dark street in a country village this side of the
Atlantic holds little or no danger."

"I offered to build a first-class lighting plant if the town would
agree to pay the running expenses; but the council threw it over. They
want me to build a library. Not much! Hold on," as Fitzgerald was
rising. "You are not going right away. I shan't permit that. Just a
little visit first."

Fitzgerald resumed his chair.

"Have a cigar. Laura is used to it."

"But does Miss Killigrew like it?" laughing.

"Cigars, and pipes, and cigarettes," she returned. "I am really fond
of the aroma. I have tried to acquire the cigarette habit, but I have