Here he seemed to breathe more freely.
He called a hansom and drove to his rooms.
The hall-porter had left his post in the front hall, and there was no one to inform Laverick that a visitor was awaiting him.

When he entered his sitting-room, however, he gave a little start of surprise.
Mr.James Shepherd was reclining in his easy-chair with his hands upon his knees--Mr.James Shepherd with his face more pasty even than usual, his eyes a trifle greener, his whole demeanor one of unconcealed and unaffected terror.
"Hullo!" Laverick exclaimed.

"What the dickens--what do you want here, Shepherd ?" "Upon my word, sir, I'm not sure that I know," the man replied, "but I'm scared.

I've brought you back the certificates of them shares.

I want you to keep them for me.