A thick-set little man in spectacles sat at the desk.

It was not Mr.
Curtis.
The thick-set man rose as Elfrida entered, and came forward a dubious step or two.

His expression was not encouraging.
"I have called to see the editor, Mr.Curtis," said she.
"The editor is not here." "Oh, isn't he?
I'm sorry for that.

When is he likely to be in?
I want to see him particularly." "He only comes here once a week, for about an hour," replied the little man, reluctant even to say so much.
"But I could see that he got a letter." "Thanks," returned Elfrida.

"At what time and on what day does he usually come ?" "That I'm not at liberty to say," the occupant of the desk replied briefly, and sat down again.
"Where _is_ Mr.Curtis ?" Elfrida asked.