"Allow me to give you my card." Cecil handed him his "pasteboard." "I left Paris last night. I have been travelling all day. I arrived five minutes ago in your hotel. What is the meaning of the treatment which has been accorded me?"
The manager regarded him with a smile which scarcely came within the definition of a "courteous smile."
"You are certainly a character."
"Explain yourself."
"Surely not much explanation is required. It is only a few minutes ago since I informed you that your presence in this establishment could no longer be permitted, and now you favour me with this amazing story."
Cecil started forward. A new light came into his eyes.
"Has anyone been staying here resembling me?"
"So much resembling you that we shall be obliged if you will pay his bill, which lies, unpaid, on the cashier's desk."
Cecil gave an exclamation--not of pleasure.
"By Jove! It's Hubert! I see it all! He has been up to some of his infernal tricks with Hetty and her mother! If he has!" He turned upon the manager, "Where is he?"