Brott, on the contrary, was most unlike himself, preoccupied, and apparently ill at ease.
"The Duke and his class are, of course, my natural opponents," Brott said shortly.

"By the bye, Prince," he added, suddenly turning towards him, and with a complete change of tone, "it is within your power to do me a favour." "You have only to command," the Prince assured him good-naturedly.
"My rooms are close here," Brott continued.

"Will you accompany me there, and grant me the favour of a few minutes' conversation ?" "Assuredly!" the Prince answered, flicking the end off his cigar.

"It will be a pleasure." They walked on towards their destination in silence.

Brott's secretary was in the library with a huge pile of letters and telegrams before him.
He welcomed Brott with relief.
"We have been sending all over London for you, sir," he said.
Brott nodded.
"I am better out of the way for the present," he answered.