t save me from a deadly evening by dining
with me at Claremont."

"Thank you, I have dined," replied Jarvis.

"So early? Well, come with me while I get a bite somewhere, and we will
go to a show, or hear some music."

"Much obliged. I am engaged for the evening."

"Oh, that's a pity. Your wife told me you were a friendless stranger in
a foreign land, so I lost no time in coming to look you up."

"Very kind of you."

"I had a charming weekend in the country. We missed you very much."

"Indeed?"

"You're a lucky chap, Jocelyn. Your wife is one of the most enchanting
women I ever met. She is unique."

"I am glad she pleases you."

"My dear fellow, I hope I haven't annoyed you. I meant no disrespect in
complimenting you on Mrs. Jocelyn's charm."

"You made your admiration a trifle conspicuous the last time I saw you,"
said Jarvis in a rage.

"I apologize, I assure you. I bid you good night."

"Unmannerly boor," was Strong's comment as he turned toward the avenue.

"Hope that settles Mr. Richard Strong," fumed Jarvis as he turned away
from the avenue.

Two letters were written Bambi that night concerning this meeting. Mr.
Strong wrote:

"DEAR LADY: I cannot possibly tell you how much of the fragrance of the
garden, and of you, stays with me even in the heat and ugliness of New
York. I am so grateful to you and the Professor for your hospitality and
your friendship.

"I went to see your Jarvis to-night, as I promised to do, but he made it
exceedingly plain to me that he desired neither my visit nor my
acquaintance. I thought he looked very tired and a trifle hectic. No
doubt the heat has worn on him. I don't mean to alarm you. I am only
searching for some excuse for my own comfort for his reception of me.

"I shall look for the next chapters with eagerness. None of your many
readers knows my proprietary delight in that tale of yours.

"My cordial regards to your father, and to yourself my thanks and my
best wishes. Faithfully,

"RICHARD STRONG."

Jarvis was not so politic. He permitted himself some rancor.

"DEAR BAMBINA: I did not get your letter announcing Strong's visit, and
his approaching descent upon me, until this evening. He followed close
upon its heels. I have no doubt you intended it kindly sending him here
to look me up, but the truth is I am in no mood for callers, and I fear
I made that rather plain to your friend. I may as well say, frankly, I