Claude put his arm round Alston Lake's shoulder.
"Alston, this has been my first chance to congratulate you without a lot of people round us, or—really to tell you, I mean, how fine your performance was. There is no doubt that you are a made man from to-night. I am glad for you. You've worked splendidly, and you deserve this great success."
Alston wrung his friend's hand.
"Thank you, Claude. But I only got my chance through you and Mrs. Charmian. If you hadn't composed a splendid opera, I couldn't have scored in it."
"You would have scored in something else. You are going to."
"I shall never enjoy singing any rôle so much as I have enjoyed singing your Spahi."
"I don't see how you are ever going to sing any rôle better," said Claude.
Their hands fell apart as Charmian quickly came in.
"You've put your coats in the lobby? That's right. Oh, here is supper! Caviare first! I'll sit here. Oh, Alston, what a comfort to be quietly here with just you and Claude after all the excitement!"
For a moment her mouth dropped, but only for a moment.