The slow hand of the clock goes round, and, sitting wearily on the hard chair, you wonder if ever it will be possible to see this much-sought man.

By-and-by a door opens above, there is a great sound of voices and chatting, and half a dozen gentlemen--mostly landed proprietors from their appearance--come downstairs.

They are the directors, and the consultation is over.

The senior clerk immediately goes to the principal, and shortly afterwards reappears and asks you to come up.
As you mount the lead-covered stairs you glance down and observe the anxious tradesman, the ancient labourer, and several others who have crowded in, all eyeing you with jealous glances.

But the senior is holding the door open--you enter, and it closes noiselessly behind you.