don’t tell her I said this, Carlie — about Rosetta Rosa. Says she’s unlucky — Rosa, I mean. Wanted me to warn Smart against engaging her. Me! Imagine it! Why, Rosa will be the making of this opera season! She’s getting a terrific salary, Smart told me.”

“It’s awfully decent of you to offer me a seat,” I began to thank him.

“Stuff!” he said. “Cost me nothing.” A clock struck softly. “Christopher! it’s half-past twelve, and I’m due at the Diana at twelve. We’re rehearsing, you know.”

We went out of the club arm in arm, Sullivan toying with his eye-glass.

“Well, you’ll toddle round to-night, eh? Just ask for my box. You’ll