As they entered the drive the Scots firs were tossing in the gale, which blew fiercely at this altitude, but, the dwelling itself being more in the hollow, the daffodil clumps on the lawn were but mildly fluttered.
The door was opened by a one-armed butler who bore all the marks of the old regular soldier.

Dickson produced a card and asked to see his master on urgent business.

Sir Archibald was at home, he was told, and had just finished breakfast.

The two were led into a large bare chamber which had all the chill and mustiness of a bachelor's drawing-room.

The butler returned, and said Sir Archibald would see him.