"I could soon put her at her ease, and I will do so."
He went over to the mantelpiece and took up an envelope that was lying there. From it he drew a slip of coloured paper.
"This will be the talisman," he said. "Have you forgotten that Saturday is boat-race day?"
"What, you have really got a box for the 'Empire'?"
"Yes; and I mean to invite Miss Bright."
Julian exclaimed with his usual frankness:
"Why the devil do you think of asking her?"
"Because I am certain she will be amusing company on such an occasion."
"That's your real reason?"
"Yes. She will come, of course?"