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"I don't see it matters."

"No. But he's definitely interested in you. Wants to meet. In fact I tentatively accepted an invitation for you this evening. I shan't, alas, be able to introduce you. But you're expected. I'll give you the address. I am expecting another visitor here."

"Curly?"

"They call him 'Susie' at the headquarters. No, not Susie. He's a dear boy and a stalwart party member, but a little earnest for the long blackout. I am packing him off to a meeting. No, I expect a very intelligent young American named Padfield--an officer, like you."

Mrs. Embury brought in the tea and the little, over-furnished room was full of its fragrance.

"I can't offer you anything to eat, I'm afraid."

"I know better than come to London for food," said Ludovic. "We do all right at my billet." He had learned his officer's voice from Sir Ralph but seldom used it when they were alone. "Mrs. Embury isn't very matey these days?"

"It's your high rank. She doesn't know how to take it. And you, what have you been up to?"