You are a young man, but your experience has doubtless told you that in this world one does not often go out of one's way to serve a stranger for no purpose at all.

There is a chance that the time may come when we shall ask you, perhaps through Louis here, perhaps through some other person, to repay in some measure your debt.

If that time should come, I trust that you will not prove ungrateful." "I think," I answered confidently, "that there is no fear of that." Monsieur Decresson touched Louis on the shoulder and motioned him to enter the automobile which was waiting.

With many bows and solemn salutes the great car swung off and left me there alone.

I watched it until it disappeared, and then, turning in the opposite direction, started to walk toward the Ritz.