that whenever his help
was required, definite instructions would be given.

The long room being well lighted by windows on both sides, the assistance
of green shaded lamps that hung dependent above the table was not
required. At the end, a raised platform with table and corner couches;
on the mantelpiece rested a box of cigars, a silver case containing
cigarettes and matches. A dozen cues stood upright in a military
position on a stand. Jim Langham placed the red ball in its position,
and Gertie took spot white. In showing her how to hold the cue, he
touched her hand, and looked quickly to see if she resented this.

"You are going to make a very fine player," he declared presently. "All
you need is practice."

Because of the pronounced scent of spirits, she drew away when he came
too near; Jim Langham instantly became more deferential. By the luck
that often comes to beginners, Gertie presently made five, potting the
red and effecting a cannon; she beamed with the delight of success. Spot
white was left in the centre of the table, and Langham, obtaining the
long rest, explained the manner of using it. In doing so, he placed his
hand upon her neck; the next moment he was on his knees conducting an
active search under the table. Gertie, flushed with annoyance, went
towards the door. Before she reached it, a knock came; the door was
rattled impatiently.

"Open it from your side," ordered the high-pitched voice of Lady Douglass.

"The key is not here," answered Gertie.

"It must be there. Why is the door locked?"

"How should I know?" retorted the girl sharply. "You don't suppose I
locked it, do you?" She heard Lady Douglass call for the useful Rutley;
and when the butler came, there was a consultation outside. The door
creaked, the lock gave way; Rutley, falling in with the door, just
escaped collision with the perturbed girl. He was told to go.

"What does this mean?" demanded Lady Douglass. "Why are you in the
billiard-room alone, Miss Higham?"

"I'm not alone. Your brother is here."

"That scarcely improves the look of affairs.--Jim, where are you?"

The gentleman, half emerging, made a mumbled, indistinct request for
matches. Gertie, walking to the end of the room, found a box.

"There's your set of teeth," she pointed out, "just by the corner leg.
It half frightened me when I saw I'd knocked the whole lot out."

"This is a serious matter," said Lady Douglass judicially. "The great
thi