“They haven't reached my number yet,” said Mr. Cribbs, with dignity.

“Well, that's good. There's still hope,” said the Judge, grimly. “They need just such fire-eaters as you over there in France with Pershing.”

Carstairs turned to Zimmerlein, who was being helped into his fur-coat by one of the attendants.

“Can't we take you to the city, Zimmerlein? There is plenty of room in the car.”

“No, thank you, Carstairs. I'm going in by train. Mr. and Mrs. Prior will drop me at the station. Good night. Oh, here's Peter. What did you hear?”

“I could get no answer, Mr. Zimmerlein,” said the steward steadily. “Wires may be down, sir.”

“Good night, Mrs. Carstairs.” Zimmerlein held out his hand. She hesitated an instant, and then took it. Her gaze was fixed, as if fascinated, on his dark, steady eyes.


CHAPTER II