I happened to have the room to myself, and told them to show the lady in.

I didn't in the least know who it could be, and I was surprised to see rather a good-looking girl--not exactly a lady--tallish, and with fine dark eyes--what did you say ?" "Nothing." "A twinge of gout ?" "Go on." Narramore scrutinised his friend, who spoke in an unusual tone.
"She sat down, and began to tell me that she was out of work--wanted a place as a bookkeeper, or something of the kind.

Could I help her?
I asked her why she came to _me_.

She said she had heard of me from someone who used to be employed at our place.

That was flattering.