`Well, Clara, how do you do?' said Mrs. Luxmore. `It appears I am to give you an allowance. So much the better for you. As for Mr. Somerset, I am very ready to have an explanation; for the whole affair, though costly, was eminently humorous. And at any rate,' she added, nodding to Paul, `he is a young gentleman for whom I have a great affection, and his pictures were the funniest I ever saw.'

`I have ordered a collation,' said the Prince. `Mr. Somerset, as these are all your friends, I propose, if you please, that you should join them at table. I will take the shop.'