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 not at home, and the Senator paid his call on Annette and enjoyed it very much. He had said to her at leaving:

"Remember, Mrs. Crane, you promised to dine with me many times in Washington, so that I may repeat, as far as possible, that pleasant day at Circleville."

"I am prepared to fulfil my promise," replied Annette, smiling, "but I hope you will give me a better dinner than I gave you."

"More kickshaws, perhaps, but nothing better. My dear lady, you must remember the difference between a gourmand and a gourmet. One, the gourmand, is a crude product, and would prefer my cook. The gourmet, who is a critic by profession, would certainly prefer yours."

It was arranged that Annette and Crane should dine with the Senator to meet a large party the next week. If Crane should be found to have an engagement, Annette was to notify the Senator.

But he had made none. When he returned from the House that, evening, at six o'clock, Annette told him of the Senator's visit and invitation, and, as ever since the summer, as soon as Senator Bick