“That,” said Mr. Taft, “is Aglipay.”

“But, you know,” said the Monsignor, “it is impossible for you to receive him here when I am present!”

Then Mr. Taft once more laboriously explained the standpoint of the American government, saying that Aglipay was in his house in his private capacity as a citizen, that he had as much right there as any other citizen, and that it would not be possible to ask him to leave as long as he conducted himself as a guest should.

“Then, I shall have to go,” said Monsignor Guidi.

“I am very sorry,” said Mr. Taft. “I understand your position perfectly and I trust you understand mine as well.”