"I found it quite difficult to persuade him that you might find it interesting to talk to me for a few minutes." "He does not quite understand," Beatrice answered.

"He has not much experience of musical affairs or the stage, and your name would not have any significance for him." Tavernake went outside and listened idly to the song which was proceeding.

It was a class of music which secretly he preferred to the stranger and more haunting notes of Beatrice's melodies.

Apparently the audience was of his opinion, for they received it with a vociferous encore, to which the young lady generously replied with a music-hall song about "A French lady from over the water." Towards the close of the applause which marked the conclusion of this effort, Tavernake felt himself touched lightly upon the arm.

He turned round.