‘I should like to know him. Is he here—at Athens?’
‘Of course he is. He is waiting till he hears the Sultan will receive him.’
‘I should like to know him,’ said Atlee, more seriously.
‘Nothing easier. He comes here every day. Will you meet him at dinner to-morrow?’
‘Delighted! but then I should like a little conversation with him in the morning. Perhaps you would kindly make me known to him?’
‘With sincere pleasure. I’ll write and ask him to dine—and I’ll say that you will wait on him. I’ll say, “My distinguished friend Mr. Atlee, of whom you have heard, will wait on you about eleven or twelve.” Will that do?’
‘Perfectly. So then I may make my visit on the presumption of being expected?’
‘Certainly. Not that Kostalergi wants much preparation. He plays baccarat all night, but he is at his desk at six.’
‘Is he rich?’
‘Hasn’t a sixpence—but plays all the same. And what people are more surprised at, pays when he loses. If I had not already passed an evening in your company, I should be bold enough to hint to you the need of caution—great caution—in talking with him.’