In Friendship's Guise

The day began well. The breakfast rolls were crisper than usual, the butter was sweeter, and never had Diane's slender white hands poured out more delicious coffee. Jack Clare was in the highest spirits as he embraced his wife and sallied forth into the Boulevard St. Germain, with a flat, square parcel wrapped in brown paper under his arm. From the window of the entresol Diane waved a coquettish farewell. Remember, in an hour, she called down to him. I shall be ready by then, Jack, and waiting. We will lunch at Bignon's – And drive in the Bois, and wind up with a jolly evening, he interrupted, throwing a kiss. I will hasten back, dear one. Be sure that you put on your prettiest frock, and the jacket with the ermine trimming.