"Yes—make up to the public a bit for losing the truth about the great pearl secret."
Jack laughed joyfully—his first happy laugh for weeks. And then, even from that unblest place, the flat of Madame Veno, he could not omit calling up Lyda, at her house.
She was at home, and answered: "Oh, I'm thankful to hear your voice. Is all well with the Duchess?"
"Yes, also with the Duke."
"He's found?"
"Yes. And the pearls. So all's well with everyone except me."
"Why not with you?"
"How can it be till you give me that promise?"
"But—since these things have happened, it's yours already. And—so am I. You are the man. I am the woman!"
"My goddess!" cried Jack through the uncongenial telephone. "I'm coming to you the instant I'm free. Juliet and Pat send you their love. You've got all mine already."