recent exposure to the Egyptian sun, was handsome in a saturnine
fashion, and a touch of gray at the temples tended to enhance his
good looks. He carried himself in that kind of nonchalant manner
which is not only insular but almost insolent.

M. Agapoulos bowed extravagantly. As he laid his plump hand upon
his breast the diamond ring sparkled in a way most opulent and
impressive.

"I greet you, Major Grantham," he said. "Behold"--he waved his
hand glitteringly--"all is prepared."

"Oh, yes," murmured the other, glancing around without interest;
"good. You are beginning to get straight in your new quarters."

Agapoulos extended the prosperous cigarette-case, and Major
Grantham took and lighted a superior cigarette.

"How many in the party?" inquired the Greek smilingly.

"Three and myself."

A shadow of a frown appeared upon the face of Agapoulos.

"Only three," he muttered.

Major Grantham laughed.

"You should know me by this time, Agapoulos," he said. "The
party is small but exclusive, you understand?"