It was the one instance of Mr.Dalmaine's having interested himself in an individual; he had no thought of anything but his own profit in doing so, but none the less he had made a mortal happy.

You observe the beneficence that lies in practicality.
Before going to luncheon on a Sunday it was Mr.Dalmaine's practice to talk of things in general with his secretary.

To-day, among other questions, he asked, with a meaning smile: 'What of young Egremont's lectures?
Has he recommenced ?' 'The first of the new course is to-night,' replied Mr.Tasker, who sat bending a paper-cutter over his leg.

Mr.Dalmaine, knowing his secretary, encouraged him to be on easy terms.

In truth, he had a liking for Tasker.