"She obviously wished me to, but it happened to be inconvenient.

By-the-bye, Tavernake, close the door, will you?
There is another matter concerning which I should like to speak to you." Tavernake did as he was bidden at once, without any disquietude.

His own services to the firm were of such a nature that he had no misgiving whatever as to his employer's desire for a private interview.
"It is about the Marston Rise estate," Mr.Dowling explained, arranging his pince nez.

"I believe that the time is coming when some sort of overtures should be made.

You know what has been in my mind for a very considerable time." Tavernake nodded.
"Yes," he admitted, "I know quite well." "I did hear a rumor," Mr.Dowling continued, "that some one had bought one small plot on the outskirts of the estate.