Handyside was a man of forty, whose dark hair was flecked with gray.

He was quietly dressed, a wide-brimmed high-crowned hat of finely-plaited white straw providing the solo note of markedly American origin in his attire.
The expression of his well-moulded features was shrewd but pleasing, and the poise of a spare but sinewy frame gave evidence of active habit and some considerable degree of physical strength.
"Pon my honor," said the Englishman.

"I'm half inclined to take you at your word, except in the matter of expenses, which, of course, I must bear.

You see, if my services are called for, and prove effective, I may need help." "Go right ahead," said the other calmly.

"Tell me as much or as little as you like.