"Madame yonder"--he nodded towards Leah--"told you why I desired this interview."
"Yes!"--Aksakoff handled his cigarette daintily--"but an explanation from you is necessary."
Demetrius nodded brusquely. "I must mention the name of your daughter."
"Without doubt, since her welfare is the main object of our meeting."
"Mademoiselle Aksakoff," said Demetrius, coldly, "has done me the honour to admire me. But that my affections are already engaged, I should certainly reciprocate."
"You allude to Mademoiselle Ninette?"
A look of surprise flitted across the other's face. "The actress? Why should you think so?"
"Rumour credits you with being her lover."
"And, as usual, rumour is wrong. Mademoiselle Ninette was assuredly my patient, but I received my fees in gold, not in kisses. As poor Dr. Demetrius I I cannot live on love, Ivan Aksakoff."
"Prince Constantine will be able to do so with the lady he mentions."