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3io BY ORDER OF THE CZAR.

seem to have time to call a cab, and then the distance was so short. Besides, he did not want to speak to anyone but himself. He handed in his message, paid for the stamps, stuck them upon the form with the greatest care, and waited until he saw the despatch on the operator's desk.

At twenty minutes to nine to the second, the brougham was at the door. The luggage was inside and out.

" Too much luggage," said Sam in an interrogative fashion and somewhat fidgetty.

" Think not, sir."

" I can send for more clothes if I want them."

"Yes, sir."


 * Will your assistant know what to send ? "

" Yes, sir."

" Don't quite know what I'm going to do, or how long I shall be away. "

" Have arranged accordingly, sir."

"You have."

" Yes, sir."

" That's all right. Don't want to be bothered."

" No, sir."

" Wire for cabin on board the boat."

" Yes, sir."

" And for special compartment from Calais."

" Yes, sir."

" Get one at Charing Cross to Dover if you can."

" Yes, sir."

Devereux accomplished everything as Sam desired. He always did. His silver and golden keys opened locks and hearts. And Devereux was just as generous in using Sam's money as the master was himself.

The boat was not crowded. Sam found a fairly com- fortable cabin. But he paced the deck from start to landing. It was a starlight night. He built castles up in the clouds.