slipped that strap round, he jumped like anything. He was in my
arms, you see."

I'm awfully sorry; but do you often embrace nobles, and how do
you say good-bye to dukes? I mean to say, I haven't got my patent
with me, and my coronet's in the store- I mean, strong room; but
anyone who doesn't know me will tell you- Besides, I never
scratch."

"The Marquis is a Blue Persian."

"These foreign titles," I murmured scornfully.

"Don't be patronizing," said Silvia. "You know where Pride goes.
Besides, I've met some very nice counts."

I leaned forward. "I know. So've I. Barons, too. The last I
struck's doing seven years now. But you're English, Silvia.
English, d'you hear? I'll bet they're all over you out here. I
know them. I'm a fool, but I don't like to think of your- I
mean, I'd rather be an English- er- "

"Burglar?"

We both laughed, and I got up. "Silvia," I said, "tell me the
best way to Fladstadt and turn me out while there is yet time."

"What do you mean?"

"This. I've already been in love with you for a quarter of an