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 woman at each table ahead of him. The steward therefore was obliged to usher him to a place opposite one of these.

It did not exactly surprise Ambrose to find himself facing Abel Morris. His first sensation, rather, was a feeling of relief. He would be able, perhaps, under these circumstances, to make some amends for his earlier behaviour. However, as he nodded in response to the other's friendly greeting, he was aware that this procedure would be difficult. It was not an easy matter at any time for Ambrose to converse with strangers. In the present instance, his natural difidence was re-enforced by the memory of their previous unfertile encounter. If bonds are broken, he acknowledged to himself in despair, it is still he who must break them.

Fortunately, Abel Morris appeared to hold no scruples against breaking them. He ordered his dinner with the hearty air of a hungry farmer and while Ambrose helplessly studied the menu, he proffered suggestions.

I've spent so much of my life on trains, he explained, almost apologetically, that I have a sort of instinct about what'll be good.

Ambrose welcomed this opportunity to exhibit his change of face. He accepted Abel Morris's sugges-