“Generous!” she cried.  “What would my duties be?”

“To advise the editor and proprietor on all possible points,” he laughed.

“And my privileges?”

“The right of a queen over a slave.”

“We move fast,” she said.  Her fingers went to the cluster of delicate-hued bells in her bodice.  But it was a false gesture.  Esme Elliot was far too practiced in her chosen game to compromise herself to comment by allowing a man whom she had just met to display her favor in his coat.

“Am I to have my price?” His voice was eager now.  She looked very lovely and childlike, with her head drooping, consideringly, above the flowers.

“Give me a little time,” she said.  “To undertake a partnership on five minutes’ notice—­that isn’t business, is it?”

“Nor is this—­wholly,” he said, quite low.

Esme straightened up.  “I’m starved,” she said lightly.  “Are you not going to get me any supper?”

After his return she held the talk to more impersonal topics, advising him, with an adorable assumption of protectiveness, whom he was to meet and dance with, and what men were best worth his while.  At parting, she gave him her hand.

“I will let you know,” she said, “about the—­the sphere of influence.”

Hal danced several more numbers, with more politeness than enjoyment, then sought out his hostess to say good-night.

“I’ll see you to-morrow, then,” she said:  “and you shall tell me all your news.”

“You’re awfully good to me, Lady Jeannette,” said he gratefully.  “Without you I’d be a lost soul in this town.”

“Most people are good to you, I fancy, Hal,” said she, looking him over with approval.  “As for being a lost soul, you don’t look it.  In fact you look like a very well-found soul, indeed.”

“It is rather a cheerful world to live in,” said Hal with apparent irrelevance.

“I hope they haven’t spoiled you,” she said anxiously.  “Are you vain, Hal?  No:  you don’t look it.”

“What on earth should I be vain about?  I’ve never done anything in the world.”

“No?  Yet you’ve improved.  You’ve solidified.  What have you been doing to yourself?  Not falling in love?”

“Not that, certainly,” he replied, smiling.  “Nothing much but traveling.”

“How did you like Esme Elliot?” she asked abruptly.

“Quite attractive,” said Hal in a flat tone.

“Quite attractive, indeed!” repeated his friend indignantly.  “In all your travelings, I don’t believe you’ve ever seen any one else half as lovely and lovable.”

“Local pride carries you far, Lady Jeannette,” laughed Hal.

“And I had intended to have her here to dine to-morrow; but as you’re so indifferent—­”

“Oh, don’t leave her out on my account,” said Hal magnanimously.

“I believe you’re more than half in love with her already.”