Will you help me ?" Readily assenting, we were soon deep in the arrangement of the numberless little mysteries that make up a woman's toilette; and nothing but the most frivolous conversation ensued.

But as I assisted in the sorting of laces, jewels, and other dainty appendages of evening costume, I was deep in earnest meditation.

Reviewing in my own mind the various sensations I had experienced since I had tasted that Eastern wine in Cellini's studio, I came to the conclusion that he must have tried an experiment on me with some foreign drug, of which he alone knew the properties.

Why he should do this I could not determine; but that he had done it I was certain.

Besides this, I felt sure that he personally exerted some influence upon me--a soothing and calming influence I was forced to admit--still, it could hardly be allowed to continue.