Bunce was at home, and in a moment came down.

He returned his visitor's greeting awkwardly, much wondering.
'Could I have a few words with you ?' Egremont asked.

'I have come on Mrs.Ormonde's behalf--the lady at the Eastbourne home, you know.

I have a message about your little girl.' 'Something happened ?' Bunce inquired, in a startled voice.
'No, no; good news, if anything.' Bunce did not willingly invite Egremont into his poor room, but he felt that he had no choice.

He just said: 'Will you come upstairs, sir ?' and led the way.
The two children were playing together on the floor; Bunce had been on the point of putting Nelly to bed.