Come to my office.
And, sir" (this was to me) "as you seem to know something of the circumstances, I will ask you to come also; and you too, Blockhead" (this was to Woodden, who just then approached with the plant).
Now, of course, I might have refused an invitation conveyed in such a manner.

But, as a matter of fact, I didn't.

I wanted to see the thing out; also to put in a word for young Somers, if I got the chance.

So we all departed from that room, followed by a titter of amusement from those of the company who had overheard the conversation.

In the street stood a splendid carriage and pair; a powdered footman opened its door.
With a ferocious bow Sir Alexander motioned to me to enter, which I did, taking one of the back seats as it gave more room for my tin case.