The calendar on his writing-table reminded him that it was Thursday.

After all, he might as well respond to the friendly invitation of last evening, and say good-bye to his stately acquaintances in Grosvenor Square.

He paid a little attention to costume, and presently went forth.
In this drawing-room he had been wont to shine with the double radiance of artist and critic.

Here he had talked pictures with the fashionable painters of the day; music with men and women of resonant name.

The accomplished hostess was ever ready with that smile she bestowed only upon a few favourites, and her daughter--well, he had misunderstood, and so came to grief one evening of mid-season.