320 B Y ORDER OF THE CZAR.

She fluiig her arms round her lawful critic, deposited her head upon his shoulder, and Walter gave her what he considered to be a triumphant kiss.

" Now then," he said cheerfully, " that's all right. I forgive you ; we understand each other. I have no doubt you did the right thing ; I have no doubt Dolly has done the right thing ; I am sure Sam Swynford has ; and I am quite sure that Philip Forsyth has behaved shamefully."

" Walter, you are a darling ! " exclaimed his wife, re- turning his kiss. " And now, what are your plans ? "

" To get out of Venice at once as you proposed," said Walter ; and, as he said so, they both, by mutual impulse, left the balcony as if to pack ; but they were both attracted by the entrance of the manager of the hotel.

" A letter," he said, " very urgent, for Mr. Milbanke."

Walter opened it. It was from Philip Forsyth only a few lines :

" Forgive me. Accept my abject regrets and apologies. Dolly will easily forgive me. I am utterly unworthy of her and of your friendship. Tell her so. We shall probably never meet again. I have left Venice on a long journey. My conduct on the night of the Countess Stravensky's reception may explain my change of plans and life. I feel it due to you to say this. No one need be alarmed as to my safety. I have written to my mother. If ever you and yours think of me again, remember me when most I seemed entitled to your respect and esteem.

" PHILIP FORSYTH."

<; Thank you," said Walter, turning to the manager. "" There is no answer."

The messenger did not wait," said the manager.

" You have instructions to forward on the remainder of Mr. Forsyth's baggage ? "

" Yes, sir, it goes to Paris."

• ' I am sorry," said Walter, " to tell you that this has

broken up our little party. We shall leave to-morrow for $Jie lakes and Switzerland ; but we are very much in-