The Greek did not care a straw what became of Mr. Feist's head, for he was waiting to renew his conversation with Margaret.
Mustapha Pasha told her that she should go to Constantinople some day and sing to the Sultan, who would give her a pretty decoration in diamonds; and she laughed carelessly and answered that it might be very amusing.
'I shall be very happy to show you the way,' said the Pasha. 'Whenever you have a fancy for the trip, promise to let me know.'
Margaret had no doubt that he was quite in earnest, and would enjoy the holiday vastly. She was used to such kind offers and knew how to laugh at them, though she was very well aware that they were not made in jest.
'I have a pretty little villa on the Bosphorus,' said the Ambassador, 'If you should ever come to Constantinople it is at your disposal, with everything in it, as long as you care to use it.'
'It's too good of you!' she answered. 'But I have a small house of my own here which is very comfortable, and I like London.'
'I know,' answered the Pasha blandly; 'I only meant to suggest a little change.'
He smiled pleasantly, as if he had meant nothing, and there was a pause, of which Logotheti took advantage.
'You are admirable,' he said.
'I have had much more magnificent invitations,' she answered. 'You once wished to give me your yacht as a present if I would only make a trip to Crete—with a party of archaeologists! An archduke once proposed to take me for a drive in a cab!'