"You must allow me to interfere," he said. "We are not alone. There are other ladies and gentlemen in the room, and their eyes are on you. We will adjourn to our apartments."
He took Annette's hand and led the way, and in a few moments they were able to converse without drawing upon themselves the attention of strangers.
"You will excuse me," said Gilbert to Chaytor with grave courtesy, pointing to a chair, "but I think this is better."
"Infinitely better, M. Bidaud," said Chaytor, "and I thank you for recalling me to myself. May I hope that you will shake hands with me?"
"Willingly. Let bygones be bygones. We did not understand each other at the other end of the world; we will manage better at this end. When did you arrive in Paris?"
"This morning. I travelled by the night mail."
"Lie the first," thought Gilbert Bidaud as he smiled and nodded.
"A weary journey, and I wanted to get rid of the stains of travel before I presented myself. I was afraid, Annette--or I should rather now say Miss Bidaud--might not recognise me."
"I should have known you anywhere," said Annette softly.
"And you, M. Bidaud?" asked Chaytor, turning laughingly to the old man.