"No, sir." William's face expressed indescribable enjoyment of the scene.
The girl's mouth stiffened. She was struggling to repress the almost irresistible smile that tickled her lips.
"In times like these," said I, determined not to be outdone, "we are often thoughtless in regard to our personal appearances. I apologize to the lady."
"Fine, fine! I sincerely admire you, Mr. Comstalk. You have the true spirit of adventure. Hasn't he, William?"
"He certainly has, sir."
"Comes to a private ball without an invitation, and has a merry time of it indeed. To have the perfect sense of humor—that is what makes the world go round."
"Aren't you taking extra risk in offering me these pleasantries?" I asked.
"Risks? In what manner?"
"The man you so cleverly impersonated is at the club." I do not know what prompted me to put him on his guard.
The rogue laughed lightly. "I know Mr. Haggerty's habits. He is hustling back to New York as fast as he can. He passed here ten minutes ago in the patrol, lickety-clip! He wishes to warn all pawnbrokers and jewelers to be on the lookout for me to-morrow. Ten thousand in a night!"—jovially.