The Major paused with suspended pencil, as he quietly approached the decisive question: "And at Delhi, what am I to do ?" "You are to take up your old friendship with Hugh Fraser--this budding baronet," replied Berthe calmly.

She was pouring out a glass of the wine beloved of women, but her hand trembled as she hastily drank off the inspiring fluid.

"All this is bravo--mere bravo! She's a very smart woman, and a cool customer!" decided the schemer, who had filled himself up a long drink.

He took up at once the object-lesson.

They were simply to be comrades--and nothing more.
"I will obey you to the very letter," he said simply, for he was well aware the woman was keenly watching him.
"Then that is all.