'I should have written, but I had to pass so near--' 'I'm very glad.

Will you come in ?' It was the first time that Egremont had been at the house.

Gilbert conducted him into the parlour, and took from him his hat and umbrella.
'This is my mother,' he said.

'Mr.Egremont, mother; you'll be glad to see him.' The old lady regarded Walter with courteous curiosity, and bowed to him.

A few friendly words were exchanged, then Egremont said to Grail: 'If you hadn't been in, I should have left a message, asking you to meet me to-morrow afternoon.' Mrs.Grail was about to leave the room; Egremont begged her to remain.
'It's only a piece of news concerning our library scheme.