to invite attention to her
golden-brown hair. Her coloring left nothing for the heart to desire, and
her brown eyes called immediately for a second glance. She was deft and
quick; her graceful walk in itself compelled admiration. As the door
closed upon her, Hood bent a look of inquiry upon his brooding companion.

"Perhaps she's the adorable--the true, authentic Pierrette," he
suggested.

Deering shook his head.

"No; the other girl was not so tall and her voice was different; it was
wonderfully sweet and full of laughter. I couldn't be fooled about it."

"There's mystery here--a game of some kind. Mark the swish of silken
skirts; unless my eyes fail me, I caught a glimpse of silken hose as she
flitted into the pantry."

When an omelet had been served and the coffee poured (she poured coffee
charmingly!) Hood called her back as she was about to leave them.

"Two men should never be allowed to eat alone. If your mistress is not
returning at once, will you not do us the honor to sit down with us?"

"Thank you, sir," she said, biting her lip to conceal a smile.

Deering was on his feet at once and drew out the third chair, which she
accepted without debate. She composedly folded her arms on the edge of
the table as though she were in nowise violating the rules set down for
the guidance of waitresses. Hood, finding the situation to his taste,
blithely assumed the lead in the conversation.

"It is perfectly proper for you to join us at table," he remarked, "but
formal introductions would not be in keeping. Still, your employer
doubtless has some familiar name for you, and you might with propriety
tell us what it is, so we won't need to attract your attention by
employing the vulgar 'Say' or 'Listen'!"

"My mistress calls me Babette," she answered, her lashes drooping
becomingly.

"Perfect!" cried Hood ecstatically. "And we are two outlaws whose names
it is more discreet for us to withhold, even if it were proper to
exchange names with a mere housemaid."

Deering winced; it was indecent in Hood to treat her as though she were a
housemaid when so obviously she was not.

"My friend doesn't mean to be rude," he explained; "the morning air
always makes him a little delirious."

"I hope I know my place," the girl replied, "and I'm sure you gentlemen
mean to be kind."

"You needn't count the spoons after we leave," said Hood; "I assure you
we have no professional designs on the house."

"Thank you, sir. Of cour