Dickson rang the antiquated bell, and was presently admitted to a dark hall floored with oilcloth, where a single gas-jet showed that on one side was the business office and on the other the living-rooms.

Mr.Loudon was at supper, he was told, and he sent in his card.

Almost at once the door at the end on the left side was flung open and a large figure appeared flourishing a napkin.

"Come in, sir, come in," it cried.

"I've just finished a bite of meat.