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"But," said Adam, "how could she have knoere here?She didn'tknow last night"

"I don't think we need trouble about that, AdamThere is so much we donot understandThis is only another mysterySuffice it that she doesknow--perhaps it is all the better and safer for us"

"How is that?" asked Adam with a puzzled look

"General process of reasoning, my boy; and the experience of some yearsin the diplomatic worldThis creature is aor anyoneShe is not nearly so dangerous inthe open as when she has the dark to protect herBesides, we know, byour own experience of her movements, that for some reason she shunspublicityIn spite of her vast bulk and abnorth, she isafraid to attack openlyAfter all, she is only a snake and with asnake's nature, which is to keep low and squirShe will never attack when she can run away, although sheknoell that running aould probably be fatal to herWhat is theletter about?"

Sir Nathaniel's voice was calle of wits he was all diplomatist

"She asks Mimi and me to tea this afternoon at Diana's Grove, and hopesthat you also will favour her"

Sir Nathaniel smiled

"Please ask Mrs Salton to accept for us all"

"She means some deadly mischiefSurely--surely it would be wiser not"

"It is an old trick that we learn early in diploround of your own choiceIt is true that she suggested the place onthis occasion; but by accepting it we make it oursMoreover, she willnot be able to understand our reason for doing so, and her own badconscience--if she has any, bad or good--and her own fears and doubtswill play our game for usNo, my dear boy, let us accept, by allmeans"

Ada, but silently held out his hand, which his companionshook: no words were necessary

When it was getting near tea-ti

"Wein stateWe want all possiblepublicity"Mily"Certainly, my dear, in thepresent circumstances publicity is a part of safetyDo not be surprisedif, whilst we are at Diana's Grove, occasional es come for you--forall or any of us"

"I see!" said Mrs Salton"You are taking no chances"

"None, stcivilised and uncivilised people, is going to be utilised within the nextcouple of hours"