They were not accustomed to having people enter the sanctum of the Colossus so unceremoniously.

But when he saw who it was, Mr.Ryder's stern, set face relaxed and he greeted his son amiably.
"Why, Jeff, my boy, is that you?
Just a moment, until I get rid of Bagley, and I'll be with you." Jefferson turned to the book shelves and ran over the titles while the financier continued his business with the secretary.
"Now, Bagley.

Come, quick.

What is it ?" He spoke in a rapid, explosive manner, like a man who has only a few moments to spare before he must rush to catch a train.

John Ryder had been catching trains all his life, and he had seldom missed one.
"Governor Rice called.