For I think it possible that the very object which I had in mind when proposing that tour may be quite as easily effected in the charming country house of Garratt Skinner." He spoke in a quiet matter-of-fact voice, looking benevolently at his visitor.

If the words were capable of another and a more sinister meaning than they appeared to convey, Walter Hine did not suspect it.

He took them in their obvious sense.
"Yes, I shall gain as much culture in Garratt Skinner's house as I should by seeing picture-galleries abroad," he said eagerly, and then Mr.
Jarvice smiled.
"I think that very likely," he said.

"Meanwhile, as to Barstow and his thousand pounds.

I must think the matter over.