And then there came a pause.

"My name is Sleuth," he said suddenly,--"S-l-e-u-t-h.

Think of a hound, Mrs.Bunting, and you'll never forget my name.

I could provide you with a reference--" (he gave her what she described to herself as a funny, sideways look), "but I should prefer you to dispense with that, if you don't mind.

I am quite willing to pay you--well, shall we say a month in advance ?" A spot of red shot into Mrs.Bunting's cheeks.