Page:Bailey - Call Mr Fortune (Dutton, 1921).djvu/41

30 "I beg your pardon, madame," Reggie said stiffly. The creature was absurdly adorable.

"You? Oh—Englishman." It was made plain to him that he was expected to kiss her hand. He did it like an Englishman. Then the other was put to his lips.

He cleared his embarrassed throat. "I must insist, madame, you will say nothing of this to any one. It's necessary the household should suppose the Archduke still in danger."

"Why?" A spasm crossed her face. "You are afraid of Leopold!"

"And you, madame?" Reggie said.

"Afraid? No, but"—she shuddered—"but he is not a man."

"Have no anxieties, madame. I have none," Reggie said, and opened the door. Then, "She's a bit of a dear," he said to himself, and rang for his lunch.

Four times that afternoon the Archduke Leopold sent to ask for news of his brother, and each time Reggie answered that the patient was much the same. "Leopold will be doin' some thinking," Reggie chuckled. "Happy days for Leopold."

Towards tea-time the Hon. Stanley Lomas arrived, jauntier than ever.

"Well, doctor, been enjoying yourself, what?" He shook hands heartily. "Best congratulations and