She desires me to say that she fears she may not be able to see you this evening.' 'Is there a fire anywhere ?' 'Only in the library, sir.' 'I will dine there.

And let a fire be lit in my bedroom.' 'Yes, sir.

Will you dine at once, sir ?' 'In an hour.

Something light; I don't care what it is.' 'Shall the fire be lit in your bedroom at once, sir ?' 'At once, and a hot bath prepared.

Come to the library and tell me when it is ready.' The servant silently departed.