CHAPTER XI.
AN UNEXPECTED RENCONTRE It was lunch-time when the visitors landed, and they proceeded to the St.George's Hotel in Market Square, to attend to this mid-day duty.

In the coffee-room they found quite a number of guests, and the only spare seat the detective found was at a large table at which a gentleman in uniform was seated.
"Wit your permis-si-on, I take one of the places here," said M.Rubempre with his politest flourish.
"Certainly," replied the gentleman, as politely as the Frenchman; and he seated himself at the table, Christy remaining standing.
"_Demandez un garcon_" (ask for a waiter), "Christophe." Then in French he asked the stranger opposite him if he spoke that language.
"A little, sir; but I am not fluent in it," replied the gentleman in the same language.
"Ah, my dear sir, you speak very well; and you have the Parisian accent," added the Frenchman, who, like his countrymen, counted upon the effect of a little well-administered flattery.
"You are very kind to say so, sir.

I have been in Paris a few months, and was always able to make my way with the language," said the stranger, evidently pleased with the commendation bestowed upon his French accent; for many people take more pride in their foreign accent than in the proper use of their own language.
"Christophe, find a place for yourself, and order what you desire," continued the Frenchman, as a waiter, summoned by the acting servant, presented himself to take the order.
At this moment a gentleman behind the detective vacated his place at the table, and Christy took a seat close to his companion.

The lunch of both was ordered, and the stranger opposite had but just commenced his meal.
M.Rubempre "laid himself out" to make himself as agreeable as possible, and he seemed to be succeeding admirably, for the stranger appeared to be absolutely charmed with him.

Speaking slowly and clearly, so that the person in uniform, who did not speak French fluently, could understand him, he told him all about his brother in the Confederate army, and strongly expressed his desire to join him, and perhaps the army, for he had very strong sympathy for the right in the great conflict; in fact, he was disposed to engage in fighting for the right.
Then he inquired of his new friend what wine was the best in the island.
The stranger preferred sherry, but perhaps a Frenchman might take a different view of the subject.