“You know that the beautiful Scheherazade––”
“Was famous for her fantastic stories? Yes, I know that, Mr. Neeland. I’m sorry you don’t believe I fired only to frighten you.”
“I’m sorry I don’t,” he admitted, laughing, “but I’ll practise trying, and maybe I shall attain perfect credulity some day. Tell me,” he added, “what have you been doing to amuse yourself?”
“I’ve been amusing myself by wondering whether you would come here to see me tonight.”
“But your note said you were sure I’d come.”
“You have come, haven’t you?”
“Yes, Scheherazade, I’m here at your bidding, spirit and flesh. But I forgot to bring one thing.”
“What?”
“The box which—you have promised yourself.”
“Yes, the captain has it, I believe,” she returned serenely.