Railsford had completely forgotten the episode in the fields the previous day; he scarcely recollected that Mr Bickers had been present at the sports, and was delightfully oblivious to the fact that he, Railsford, had either slighted or offended his colleague.

He wondered what was the occasion of the present visit, and secretly resolved to keep both his temper and his head if he could.
"Good-evening," said he, with a friendly smile.

"I'm just going to have my coffee; won't you have a cup too, Bickers ?" Mr Bickers took no notice of this hospitable invitation, but closed the door behind him and said, "I want a few words with you, Mr Railsford." "Certainly?
I've nothing to do-- Won't you take a seat ?" Mr Bickers took a seat, a little disconcerted by Railsford's determined good-humour.

He had not counted upon that.
"The last time I saw you you were hardly so polite," said he, with a sneer.
"When was that?
I'm very sorry if I was rude; I had no intention, I assure you." Railsford began to feel a little like the lamb in the fable.

This wolf had evidently come bent on a quarrel, and Railsford, lamb and all as he was, would have liked to oblige him.