valet discreetly entered.

“Monsieur rang?”

“No, Alexis. Leave us.”

Comprehending that it was at last Alresca’s hour for retiring, I rose to leave, and called the man back.

“Good night, dear friend,” said Alresca, pressing my hand. “I shall expect you to-morrow, and in the meantime a room shall be prepared for you. Au revoir.”

Alexis conducted me to the door. As he opened it he made a civil remark about the beauty of the night. I glanced at his face.

“You are English, aren’t you?” I asked him.

“Yes, sir.”