A 'undred and seventy-three was the number.' "'That's right,' I said; 'my dear Smith, this is becoming complicated.
You've met the lady and talked to her for half an hour--as Smythe, don't you remember ?' "'No,' he said, after cogitating for a minute, 'carn't say I do; I never can remember much about Smythe.

He allers seems to me like a bad dream.' "'Well, you met her,' I said; 'I'm positive.

I introduced you to her myself, and she confided to me afterwards that she thought you a most charming man.' "'No--did she ?' he remarked, evidently softening in his feelings towards Smythe; 'and did _I_ like '_er_ ?' "'Well, to tell the truth,' I answered, 'I don't think you did.

You looked intensely bored.' "'The Juggins,' I heard him mutter to himself, and then he said aloud: 'D'yer think I shall get a chance o' seein' 'er agen, when I'm--when I'm Smythe ?' "'Of course,' I said, 'I'll take you round myself.

By the bye,' I added, jumping up and looking on the mantelpiece, 'I've got a card for a Cinderella at their place--something to do with a birthday.