They recognized each other; at the same moment, by a common impulse, they saluted each other ceremoniously and passed on their different ways.
Maurice was expected, and he found Mr.Payne ready to receive him.
Instead, however, of plunging at once into business as, a minute ago, he was prepared to do, he asked abruptly.

"Is Mr.Percy a client of yours ?" "I can hardly say that," the lawyer answered, surprised by the question.
"I met him going out," Maurice went on.
Mr.Payne rubbed his hands.
"It is no secret," he said; "I may tell you, I suppose.

He called about some points in a marriage settlement." Maurice felt his heart give a great leap.
"Whose ?" he asked sharply.
Mr.Payne again looked surprised.
"His own, certainly.

He is going to marry a daughter of the Earl of C----, and I had the honour of being employed by the late Countess's family, from whom her ladyship derives what fortune she has.

It is not very large," he added, dropping from his dignified tone into a more confidential one.
Maurice was silent for a minute.