He guessed the reason of their visit at once, and went straight to the front door to meet them, and without a word motioned them to follow him into his own quarters.

It was characteristic of him that he took the first word--before either of his visitors could speak.
"I know why you've come," he said, as he closed the door and glanced at Mary.

"You either want my permission that you should tell Dr.Ransford what I told you this morning, or, you want me to tell him myself.

Am I right ?" "I should be glad if you would tell him," replied Mary.

"The rumour you spoke of has reached him--he ought to know what you can tell.