It was nearly noon when Jed, entering the front shop in answer to the bell, found there the couple the sight of which caused his heart to sink.

Here they were, the house hunters--there was no doubt of it in his mind.

The man was short and broad and protuberant and pompous.

The woman possessed all the last three qualities, besides being tall.

He shone with prosperity and sunburn, she reeked of riches and talcum.