He hoped fervently that he
did not form part of it. At length the quivering silence was broken by
Mr. Sagittarius.
"I might accompany you to Mrs. Bridgeman's, sir," he said to the
Prophet. "Might I not, Sophronia?"
"Oh, but--" began the Prophet, very hastily.
"The lady has frequently pressed me to accept of her hospitality."
"Indeed!"
"For years she has been writing to me at Jellybrand's, under my real
name of Malkiel the Second, you understand. She addresses me simply as
the master.'"
"But do the postal authorities--"
"Not upon the envelope, sir, not upon the envelope."
"I see."
"Hitherto, true to myself, true to the principles of Malkiel the
First, and to the instincts of Madame, I have declined her personal
acquaintance. But there is no reason why you should not introduce me to
the house as Mr. Sagittarius, no reason at all."
The Prophet knew only too well that there was not, but before he had
time to go on trying to wriggle out of the complication, Madame struck
in.
"Miss Minerva is to be present at this reception, I believe," she said
sharply.
"Yes, she is," answered the Prophet, illumined by a ray of hope.
"Jupiter," said Madame, "I will accompany you and Mr.
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