heavy reception of Cissie and Albert, determined to shift the subject.

“Let me see, Mr. Vyse — I forget — what is your profession?”

“I have no profession,” said Cecil. “It is another example of my decadence. My attitude quite an indefensible one — is that so long as I am no trouble to any one I have a right to do as I like. I know I ought to be getting money out of people, or devoting myself to things I don't care a straw about, but somehow, I've not been able to begin.”

“You are very fortunate,” said Mr. Beebe. “It is a wonderful opportunity, the possession of leisure.”

His voice was rather parochial, but he did not quite see his way to