"I was seated alone, several tables away, when the couple next to you went out, and having had pointed out to me the other evening at Claridge's Hotel, and knowing well by repute, the great barrister, Mr.Francis Ledsam, and his friend the world-famed novelist, Mr.Andrew Wilmore, I--er--unobtrusively made my way, half a yard at a time, in your direction--and here I am.

I came stealthily, you may object?
Without a doubt.

If I had come in any other fashion, I should have disturbed a conversation in which I was much interested." "Could you find it convenient," Francis asked, with icy politeness, "to return to your own table, stealthily or not, as you choose ?" The newcomer showed no signs of moving.
"In after years," he declared, "you would be the first to regret the fact if I did so.

This is a momentous meeting.

It gives me an opportunity of expressing my deep gratitude to you, Mr.Ledsam, for the wonderful evidence you tendered at the inquest upon the body of my son-in-law, Oliver Hilditch." Francis turned in his place and looked steadily at this unsought-for companion, learning nothing, however, from the half-mocking smile and imperturbable expression.
"Your son-in-law ?" he repeated.