"I require a very festive costume to-night, Jim. Rose velvet and cream brocade, I think."
"Very good, your lordship," was the prim reply.
Jack slewed round.
"What's that?"
"I understand your lordship is an Earl," said poor Jim.
"Now who was the tactless idiot who told you that? I had intended to break the news myself. I suppose now, you know my—story?"
"Yes, si—my lord. I—I suppose ye won't be requiring my services any longer?"
"In heaven's name, why not? Do you wish to leave me?"
"Wish to—! No, sir—my lord—I—I thought ye'd maybe want a smarter valet—and—not me."
My lord turned back to the mirror and withdrew the pin from his cravat.