The Essential E. F. Benson: 53+ Titles in One Volume (Illustrated Edition). E. F. Benson

ever such a family? I may talk to you for five minutes, and then David and I are going to sleep. But about last night. I don't know how much the servants saw, or what they know, but Waldenech came here to shoot you. He was drunk, poor wretch, he couldn't face me for a moment. It was such a deplorable failure that I feel sure he won't try it again, but I should be happier if he left England. See your solicitor about it, have him threatened if he doesn't go. Do that this morning, dear, and when I wake be able to tell me he has gone. And now, oh, you and David and I! I told you I should behave in some unusual manner, but I didn't think Waldenech would be concerned in it. Jack, kiss the top of David's adorable head, but don't disturb him. And then, my dearest, kiss me, and I shall instantly go to sleep. And neither Waldenech nor I will be able to go to Nadine's wedding, but my reason for not going is much the nicest. Isn't it, oh my David?"

       About ten o'clock Jack went out to do as Dodo had bidden him, and preferring to walk, crossed the Green Park, and went through the arcade fronting the Ritz Hotel. He had forgotten to ask Dodo where Waldenech was staying, but fancied that when he was in England last winter, he had stopped here. So he went through the revolving-door, and into the Bureau.

      "Is Prince Waldenech stopping here?" he asked.

      The clerk looked down to consult the register of guests before he answered:

      "His Serene Highness left for Paris this morning."

       THE END

      Dodo Wonders

       Table of Contents

       Table of Contents

       I. Dodo de Senectute

       II. Highness

       III. Cross-Currents

       IV. Jumbo

       V. A Man's Hand

       VI. A Waterloo Ball

       VII. Dodo's Apprenticeship

       VIII. Edith Declares War

       IX. Mid-Stream

       X. The Silver Bow

       XI. Dodo's Night Out

       XII. The Revival