“Believed what?”
“Why that such immense throngs of persons should visit these rooms—then the women! I wouldn’t have missed seeing this on any account.”
A fair Cyprian now came to the front, and asked them to treat her with something to drink.
She had evidently some little knowledge of Kempshead, whom she addressed in a familiar manner.
There was, however, nothing remarkable in this, since most of the ladies who were in the habit of paying nocturnal visits to the Argyll were generally pretty familiar with most persons, whether strangers or otherwise.
“My friend is of a retiring disposition,” said Kempshead.
“Indeed! I’m sorry for him, poor fellow,” returned the girl; “but let the gentleman speak for himself.”
Peace drew towards one of the refreshment counters, and asked the lady what she would have.
She elected to have a glass of port wine.
This was ordered, with seltzers and brandies for the two gentlemen.