ncing. With the same polite air, as though he were in the company of young ladies, he touched the edge of his frock-coat and asked:

»Do you mind if I take off my coat?«

The girl scowled slightly.

»Certainly. Of course....«

»And my waistcoat? It's so tight.«

The girl did not answer, but merely shrugged her shoulders.

»Here is my pocket-book ... and money. Will you be so good as to take care of them for me?«

»You had better leave them at the office. We always deposit such things there.«

»Why?« He looked at the girl, and turned aside in confusion. »Oh, of course ... but that's silly!«

»But do you know how much you have on you? Some people don't know, and then afterwards....«

»I understand. Quite. You desire....«

He lay down, politely leaving room for her by the wall. And enchanting sleep, spaciously smiling, came and nestled with its downy cheek against his, gently fondled him, stroking his knees, and mercifully settling to rest with its soft, velvety head on his shoulder. He smiled.

»What makes you smile?« The girl smiled involuntarily.

»Because I am comfortable.... How soft your pillows are! Now we can talk awhile. Why don't you drink something?«

»I think I shall take off my things ... if you don't mind? I shall have to sit still so long.«

Her voice had a touch of mockery. But at the sight of his unsuspecting glance, and hearing his simple.... »Certainly, please do« ... she explained quite simply and seriously: »My corset is so tight. I shall take it off, too ... if I may.«

»Certainly, you may.«

He turned away, blushing. But, either because insomnia had so addled his thoughts, or because all his life he had been so innocent, his »you may« sounded quite natural to him ... in a house where al