The Lighted Match

"Besides," he supplemented, "Delgado is a dreaming degenerate! We must

get back into the game."

The Spaniard laughed. "As you say, Señor. After all, this mere

cruising grows monotonous. Playing the game is better."

When, at twilight that evening, the launch came chugging back to the

yacht with the mail from Naples, Benton caught sight of a blue envelope

in which he recognized the form of the Italian telegraph. He tore it

open and his brows contracted in incredulous wonderment as he read the

message.

"Miss Carstow and two other ladies arrive Parker's Hotel Naples Tuesday

afternoon. Rely on your meeting her with yacht. She will explain. Be

ready to sail immediately on arrival. Address reply Pagratide, care

Grand Palace Hotel."

Benton smiled almost happily as he scrawled, in reply, "Isis and self

at Miss Carstow's service. Waiting under steam. Benton."