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 distance, opened their eyes very wide indeed.

"Please don't,"said Fen; "I like real talking better."

"I was just wishing you a good day and inquiring after your health," said Siddereticus. "The signor looks very nice to-day," he added, regarding the russet smock and the pathetically unworn tan shoes.

The color flew to Fen's cheeks for an instant.

"I don't believe you ever saw me with proper clothes on, before," he said shyly; "I'm lots better now."

"Well enough to go with me across the waters to Venezia?" asked Siddereticus, with a sweep of his arm toward the clustered city.

"Wh-what do you mean?" breathed Fen.

"What I say. If you think it won't