I fancy he had to report on commercial matters to some firm of bankers in London, but he supplied very little positive information before Edith and he sailed.

Indeed, I took it that his mission was highly confidential, and about that time there was a lot in the newspapers about rival negotiators for a big Chinese loan, so I formed the opinion that he was sent out in connection with something of the sort.

Neither he nor Edith meant to remain long in the Far East.

At first their letters always spoke of an early return.

Then, when the years dragged on, and I asked for definite news of their homecoming, Edith said that Arthur could not get away until the country's political affairs were in a more settled state.