There are times, as I am unfortunately able to testify, when the latter possibility is not so remote as might be expected.

Taken altogether, however, the Hotel of the Three Desires is an excellent place to take up one's abode, provided one is not desirous of attracting too much attention in the city.

As a matter of fact its patrons, for some reason of their own, are more _en evidence_ after nightfall than during the hours of daylight.

They are also frugal of speech as a rule, and are chary of forming new acquaintances.

When they know each other well, however, it is surprising how affable they can become.