Then he changed the subject.
'I ventured to put at Miss Mutimer's disposal certain tickets I hold--professionally--for the Regent's Theatre to-night--the dress circle.

I have five seats in all.

May I have the pleasure of your company, Mr.Mutimer ?' 'I'm only in town for a night,' Richard replied; 'and I can't very well spare the time.' 'To be sure, to be sure; I was inconsiderate.

Then Miss Mutimer and my friend Harry--' 'I'm sorry they're not at liberty,' was Richard's answer to the murmured interrogation.

'If they had accepted your invitation be' so good as to excuse them.