He had already surmised, from the dressing-case and coats in the hall, that his visitor had come direct from the station.
"What will you have ?" he enquired.
"A bottle of hock with seltzer water, and ice if you have it," Seaman replied.

"Also a plate of cold meat, but it must be served here.
And afterwards the biggest cigar you have.

I have indeed news, news disturbing, news magnificent, news astounding." Dominey gave some orders to the servant who answered his summons.

For a few moments they spoke trivialities of the journey.

When everything was served, however, and the door closed, Seaman could wait no longer.