th a puzzled look.

"General process of reasoning, my boy; and the experience of some years
in the diplomatic world. This creature is a monster without heart or
consideration for anything or anyone. She is not nearly so dangerous in
the open as when she has the dark to protect her. Besides, we know, by
our own experience of her movements, that for some reason she shuns
publicity. In spite of her vast bulk and abnormal strength, she is
afraid to attack openly. After all, she is only a snake and with a
snake's nature, which is to keep low and squirm, and proceed by stealth
and cunning. She will never attack when she can run away, although she
knows well that running away would probably be fatal to her. What is the
letter about?"

Sir Nathaniel's voice was calm and self-possessed. When he was engaged
in any struggle of wits he was all diplomatist.

"She asks Mimi and me to tea this afternoon at Diana's Grove, and hopes
that you also will favour her."

Sir Nathaniel smiled.

"Please ask Mrs. Salton to accept for us all."

"She means some deadly mischief. Surely--surely it would be wiser not."

"It is an old trick that we learn early in diplomacy, Adam--to fight on
ground of your own choice. It is true that she suggested the place on
this occasion; but by accepting it we make it ours. Moreover, she will
not be able to understand our reason for doing so, and her own bad
conscience--if she has any, bad or good--and her own fears and doubts
will play our game for us. No, my dear boy, let us accept, by all
means."

Adam said nothing, but silently held out his hand, which his companion
shook: no words were necessary.

When it was getting near tea-time, Mimi asked Sir Nathaniel how they were
going.

"We must make a point of going in state. We want all possible
publicity." Mimi looked at him inquiringly. "Certainly, my dear, in the
present circumstances publicity is a part of safety. Do not be surprised
if, whilst we are at Diana's Grove, occasional messages come for you--for
all or any of us."

"I see!" said Mrs. Salton. "You are taking no chances."

"None, my dear. All I have learned at foreign courts, and amongst
civilised and uncivilised people, is going to be utilised within the next
couple of hours."

Sir Nathaniel's voice was full of seriousness, and it brought to Mimi in
a convincing way the awful gravity of the occasion.

In due course, they set out in a carriage drawn by a fine pair of