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 going back by Suez. Her friend deserted her in China, and we've taken a courier to protect us, and now we're running up to Siam, to Bangkok."

"That's odd, isn't it?" he returned, brazenly. "I have to go there myself, on—a matter. You go by the German Mail, I suppose?"

"Oh, no, by the 'Prapatom,' on Saturday," she explained. "There'll be a crowd on board, and a stupid crowd of foreigners, I'm afraid."

"I can promise not to be a foreigner, at least," he laughed. "The 'Prapatom' happens to be my steamer.…"

A straight and shining military youth suddenly drew himself up tall before them, and drawling officially, reported that the dance was his.

"I hope to see you on board, then, Mr. Scarlett," she called with a smile over her shoulder,