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 tesimal bits, a habit she frequently indulged in during moments of concentration.

"First, are you absolutely sure about the pin?" she asked, presently, more as an opening wedge than a question.

"Absolutely."

"And the man?"

"Still more so—if that is possible."

"Miss Ford said it had belonged to her mother. There might be two such pins in the world."

Victoria shook her head. "And two such men—no! Besides, Philippa is a born liar; it isn't even second nature with her, it's first nature. She didn't want me to think she had accepted such a present from a mere acquaintance; but I have known her to take as much and more from any man who would offer it to her. She recognizes no obligation in it. She sees it merely as tribute paid to her superlative beauty and wit. She would take the Kohinoor from the devil himself ten minutes after they had been introduced."

Mrs. Durham laughed. "It's no use cautioning her, then, concerning Valdeck. As far as I can see, the French consul is the person for you 128