Two little silk flags stood near the center; as a matter of course under the present circumstances, they were the American and the British emblems.
Lord Kent saluted before he sat down, nodding to Captain MacDonnell.
"To our international marriages!" he said. "Long may they wave!"
Then he turned to Frieda and Jean, the Professor and Ralph.
"And to our great American Ally!"
As the little party took their seats they observed a small white velvet box near each plate.
Jack opened hers first and discovered inside a tiny pair of crossed flags set with jewels.
Glancing toward her husband, Lady Kent discovered that he appeared as surprised as she was at the unexpected souvenir of their dinner.
Then she chanced to catch sight of Frieda and Frieda's self-conscious expression betrayed her. Moreover, her mission to London was explained.
"I move," announced the Professor gravely, "that we offer a toast first to our wives and then to that beautiful and enduring land which has ever made the appeal of a woman to her lovers the world over. I mean, of course, 'La belle France'."