The committee will be very glad of your presence; only I warn you frankly regarding the lady, that competition will be strong." "Oh, so far as that is concerned I have not yet entered the running," laughed Brant, in affected carelessness, "although I must confess my sporting proclivities are somewhat aroused." He watched the minister walking rapidly away, a short, erect figure, appearing slender in his severely cut black cloth.

"Poor little chap," he muttered, regretfully.

"He's hard hit.

Still, they say all's fair in love and war.".