Mrs.
Hudson rose with a soft, vague sound of distress, and stood looking at him shrinkingly and waveringly, as if she were sorely tempted to retreat through the open window.

Mr.Striker swung his long leg a trifle defiantly.

No one, evidently, was used to offering hollow welcomes or telling polite fibs.

Rowland introduced himself; he had come, he might say, upon business.
"Yes," said Mrs.Hudson tremulously; "I know--my son has told me.

I suppose it is better I should see you.