There was much, indeed, that was surprising in his surroundings.

The tattered bills had been torn down from the walls, the dust-covered files of papers removed, the ceilings and walls painted and papered.

A general cleanliness and sense of order had taken the place of the old medley.

The young man who had answered his inquiry was quietly dressed and not in the least like the missing office-boy.
"Mr.Waddington is at present conducting a sale of furniture," he replied.

"I can send a message in if your business is important." Burton, who had always felt a certain amount of liking for his late employer, was filled now with a sudden pity for him.