Of these eight backs two, one of the lady midway of the counter, the other of her escort, appeared terrifyingly familiar.
In fact, when we entered I had three distinct shocks in quick succession. Flashy, painted and rouged as I was I dreaded Orontides' eyes. There he was behind his counter, visible through a rift in the press of handsomely dressed customers of both sexes.
Instinctively I glanced at the only other interval in the line of absorbed opulent backs.
Through it I recognized Agathemer smiling at me!
I saw that he, at least, recognized me at once and my dread of Orontides intensified tenfold. I knew Agathemer would be discreet, loyal and trusty. I dreaded to lose countenance if I kept my eyes on his face and I looked elsewhere.
I recognized the back of Flavius Clemens!
If he turned round I felt I was lost. Yet I could not flee. Falco was certain to linger in the shop. I must keep my self-control and prepare to brazen out anything.
The next instant I recognized the back of the lady next Flavius Clemens.
Vedia!
As I recognized her she turned, saw me, knew me through my disguise, flushed, and turned back.