You are reading for the Civil Service, I understand ?" Piers liked Mr.Jacks, and was soon chatting freely.

He told how his education had begun at a private school in London, how he had then gone to school at Geneva, and, when seventeen years old, had entered an office of London merchants, dealing with Russia.
"It wasn't my own choice.

My father talked to me, and seemed so anxious for me to go into business that I made no objection.

I didn't understand him then, but I think I do now.

You know"-- he added in a lower tone--"that I have two elder brothers ?" "Yes, I know.