Littleson, taking his cue, did his best also to feign indifference.

He leaned against a writing-table, close to where Vine was sitting, and taking out his case, carefully selected and lit a cigarette.
"Well, Mr.Vine," Weiss said, "what can we do for you?
Are you too going to join in the hustle for wealth?
Have you any commissions for us?
You will forgive me if I ask you to come to the point quickly.

Things are moving about here just now, and we have little time to ourselves.

By the by, you know Littleson, I suppose?
Your business with me is not so private that you object to his remaining ?" "Certainly not," Vine answered calmly.

"As a matter of fact, my business concerns also Mr.Littleson.In fact, there are two other of your friends whom I should have been equally glad to have seen here." "Indeed!" Weiss answered.