"My dear Mr. Ashton-Kirk:
"I was most happy to meet you upon several occasions recently. But, believe me, I had no actual realization of what you were, or I should have been overcome.
"To think that you know my own language, that you have studied the literature of Nippon, that you have even written a most delightful appreciation of it. And all the time I was ignorant of this!
"It grieves me to think that you might consider me amiss in this, and so I try to make amends. May I not greet you at my house? I can show you some Japanese and Korean manuscripts which no Caucasian has ever laid eyes on before; and also I have rare books which may afford you some pleasure to see.
"I should be gratified to have you call to-night. If it can be managed, have some one telephone me. And, in the formal way of my country,
"I am, most honorable sir, at your feet,
"Okiu."
For some time Ashton-Kirk lay back in his big chair, the smile still on his lips. Then Fuller came in.
"O'Neill will be astonished when he gets that wire," he said.
Ashton-Kirk tossed him the letter.
"Answer this," said he, lazily. "Say that I'll come."
Fuller read the letter through without comment; then he went to the telephone and did as directed. When he had finished, he turned to the other.
"The Jap has made up his mind to something," he said.
"He made up his mind upon our first meeting," replied Ashton-Kirk. "He has now decided what he will do."
Fuller shook his head.