The old diplomat was evidently well known and highly esteemed, for he had many respectful salutations to acknowledge, but the buffet was reached at last. The prince and the blonde young man, seated on a banquette in one corner, were watching a waiter fill their glasses with champagne.
The baron’s face darkened as he saw the prince’s companion.
“Imbecile!” he muttered under his breath, and advanced straight upon them.
The prince, raising his glass to his lips, raised his eyes also, and saw the baron.
“Come along, my old one!” he cried, no whit discomposed by the baron’s stormy face. “You also, M. Selden. Two more glasses,” he added to the waiter.
“Not for me at this hour!” protested the baron. “A demi Vittel,” and as the waiter hurried away, he turned to the blonde youth. “I am happy to meet you again, M. Davis,” he said. “I hope that your mother and your sister are well.”
“Oh, yes, thank you,” Davis responded.
“Permit me to introduce a compatriot of yours, M. Selden,” went on the baron.
“Happy to meet you,” said Davis, with a negligent nod.
Selden reflected that Davis did not seem particularly glad to see the baron. He was a good-looking youth, too young for his face to have taken on much character, evidently self-willed, and probably spoiled by that mother and sister for whom the baron had inquired.