I do not know that a similar privilege was denied to any one else; but as Mr.
Runciman had a direct pecuniary advantage in promoting the club, the new-comers were generally ushered in by him.

When the attorney and Twentyman entered the room Mr.Runciman was seated as usual in an arm-chair at the corner of the fire nearest to the door, with the bell at his right hand.

He was a hale, good-looking man about fifty, with black hair, now turning grey at the edges, and a clean-shorn chin.

He had a pronounced strong face of his own, one capable of evincing anger and determination when necessary, but equally apt for smiles or, on occasion, for genuine laughter.

He was a masterful but a pleasant man, very civil to customers and to his friends generally while they took him the right way; but one who could be a Tartar if he were offended, holding an opinion that his position as landlord of an inn was one requiring masterdom.