Then came Mr.Stephen, then Woodden bundled in holding the precious plant in front of him like a wand of office, and last of all, Sir Alexander, having seen us safe, entered also.
"Where to, sir ?" asked the footman.
"Office," he snapped, and we started.
Four disappointed relatives in a funeral coach could not have been more silent.

Our feelings seemed to be too deep for words.

Sir Alexander, however, did make one remark and to me.

It was: "If you will remove the corner of that infernal tin box of yours from my ribs I shall be obliged to you, sir." "Your pardon," I exclaimed, and in my efforts to be accommodating, dropped it on his toe.

I will not repeat the remark he made, but I may explain that he was gouty.