An hour passed away.

The gentlemen were conversing upon the current news of the day over their wine.

The servant brought up coffee, and I ceased to give any heed to what was passing in the next room.
I was drawing out a long deed of settlement, when my attention was aroused by the mention of my own name, and the following dialogue caught my ear: "This nephew of yours, Robert Moncton, is a fine lad.

How is it that I never heard of him before ?" "I did not think it necessary to introduce him to your notice, Sir Alexander.

He has no legal claim upon our protection.