CHAPTER XI.
It being only midday, Richard directed his steps at once to the Vicarage, and had the good fortune to find Mr.Wyvern within.
'Be seated, Mr.Mutimer; I'm glad to see you,' was the vicar's greeting.
Their mutual intercourse had as yet been limited to an exchange of courtesies in public, and one or two casual meetings at the Walthams' house.

Richard had felt shy of the vicar, whom he perceived to be a clergyman of other than the weak-brained type, and the circumstances of the case would not allow Mr.Wyvern to make advances.

The latter proceeded with friendliness of tone, speaking of the progress of New Wanley.
'That's what I've come to see you about,' said Richard, trying to put himself at ease by mentally comparing his own worldly estate with that of his interlocutor, yet failing as often as he felt the scrutiny of the vicar's dark-gleaming eye.

'We are going to open the Hall.' He added details.

'I shall have a number of friends who are interested in our undertaking to lunch with me on that day.