Now will you bring me a list of small houses or flats, something at not more than say two or three hundred a year?
It shall be strictly a business proceeding.

I will pay you for your time, if that is necessary, and your commission in advance.

There, you can't refuse my offer on those terms, can you ?" Tavernake remained silent.

He was conscious that his lack of response seemed both sullen and awkward, but he was for the moment tongue-tied.
His habit of inopportune self-analysis had once more asserted itself.

He could not understand the curious nature of his mistrust of this woman, nor could he understand the pleasure which her suggestion gave him.