It was by no means the sort of place a man of Hayle's wealth would be likely to patronize, but remembering that he had particular reasons for not being _en evidence_ just at present, I could understand his reasons for choosing such a hostelry.

I accordingly paid off my cabman and entered the bar.

Taking the young lady I found there a little on one side, I inquired whether a gentleman had arrived within the last half-hour, carrying a bag and a heavy travelling-rug.
Much to my gratification she replied that such a gentleman had certainly arrived within the past half-hour, and was now at supper in the coffee-room.

She inquired whether I would care to see him?
I replied in the negative, stating that I would call next day and make myself known to him.
"We are old friends," I said, "and for that reason I should be glad if you would promise me that you will say nothing to him about my coming to-night." Woman-like the idea pleased her, and she willingly gave the promise I asked.
"If you want to see him you'd better be here early," she said.

"He told me when he booked his room, that he should be wanting to get away at about ten o'clock to-morrow morning." "I'll be here well before that," I replied.