"How did you get here ?" "I cycled," Brooks answered.

"It was very pleasant, but muddy." "What will you have ?" Lord Arranmore asked.

"Some wine and biscuits, or something of that sort ?" His hand was upon the bell, but Brooks stopped him.
"Nothing at all, thank you, just now." "Luncheon will be served in half-an-hour," the Marquis said.

"You will prefer to wait until then ?" "I am much obliged to you," Brooks answered, "but I must be getting back to Medchester as soon as possible.

Besides," he added, with a smile, "I am afraid when I have spoken of the object of my visit you may feel inclined to kick me out." "I hope not," Arranmore replied, lightly.