Aylmer At the Carlton Aylmer had easily persuaded Bruce and Edith to dine with him next day, although they were engaged to the elder Mrs Ottley already.

He said he expected two or three friends, and he convinced them they must come too.

It is only in London that people meet for the first time at a friend's house, and then, if they take to each other, practically live together for weeks after.

No matter what social engagements they may happen to have, these are all thrown aside for the new friend.

London people, with all their correctness, are really more unconventional than any other people in the world.