"But maybe my system is the one. You can't tell till I have tried it."
Merrihew lighted a cigar, and Hillard smiled secretly. After some time the conductor came in to examine the tickets. When the examination was over he paused in front of Merrihew, who puffed complacently.
"Signore," the conductor said politely, "e vietato fumare."
Merrihew replied with an uncomprehending stare.
"Non fumer!" said the conductor, with his hand at the side of his mouth, as one does to a person who is suddenly discovered to be hard of hearing.
Merrihew smiled weakly and signified that he did not understand.
"Nicht rauchen!" cried the official in desperation.
Merrihew extended his hands hopelessly. He had nothing belonging to the conductor. Hillard had the tickets.
"Niet rooken! Niet rooken!"
"I say, Jack, what the deuce does he want, anyhow?"