"Oh yes, and from someone else, through a third party. I heard of your advertisement----"
"What advertisement?" asked Tung-yu.
"About this fan," and Miss Wharf waved it under Tung-yu's narrow eyes, which did not change their expression of indifference.
"I do not understand, Madam!"
The lady looked astonished. "Why. Didn't you advertise for the fan?"
Tung-yu permitted himself to smile. "Who told you I did?" he asked.
"Mr. Ainsleigh, who left just now, told a friend of mine, who told me," said Miss Wharf. "I understood you wished to possess this fan."
"No," said Tung-yu indifferently, "the advertisement was placed in the paper, by a compatriot of mine called Hwei. He asked me to see anyone who called about it, as he was engaged. I saw Mr. Ainsleigh and told him what he told your friend. You must apply to Hwei."
"And have my life taken," said Miss Wharf with a shudder.
This time the Chinaman was not able to suppress a start. "I do not quite understand, Madam?" he reflected.