You haven't changed much.' Drake was looking at a face distinguished by considerable comeliness.

The forehead, however, overhung the features beneath it and gave to a mouth and chin, which would otherwise have aroused no criticism, an appearance of irresolution.

The one noticeable difference in Mallinson was the addition of an air of constraint.

It was due partly to a question which had troubled him since he had received the invitation.

Had Drake read _A Man of Influence_ and recognised himself?
'I got your telegram,' he said at length.
'Naturally, or you wouldn't be here.' The answer was intended to be jocular; it sounded only _gauche_, as Drake recognised, and the laugh which accompanied it positively rude.
'Shall I put my coat in the cloak-room ?' suggested Mallinson.
'Oh yes, do!' replied Drake.