I am but a makeshift in that capacity." He smiled a polite remonstrance at my modesty, adding: "You think, then, I might have a chance ?" "An excellent one, I believe.

Turn to the left, there by the chestnut tree, and you will find yourself within a minute's walk of the front door." He bowed, raised his hat, and trotted off, moving with a quick, shuffling, short-stepping gait.

I lit another pipe and yawned.

I hoped the duke would engage this newcomer and let me go about my business; and I fancied that he would, for the fellow looked dapper, sharp, and handy.

And the duchess?
I was so disturbed to find myself disturbed at the thought of the duchess that I exclaimed: "By Jove, I'd better go! By Jove, I had!" A wishing-cap, or rather a hoping-cap--for if a man who is no philosopher may have an opinion, we do not always wish and hope for the same thing--could have done no more for me than the chance of Fate; for at the moment the duke's voice called "Sampson!" loudly from the house.