Any thing there ?" There were two letters.

The invalid examined them with disappointment and tossed them aside.
"Beggars and blackmailers," he muttered.

"Nobody else writes to me." Of a sudden it occurred to him that he was forgetting the duties of hospitality.

He urged his guest to take refreshment; he roused himself, went to the cupboard, brought out half a dozen kinds of beverage.
"And of course you will lunch with me, or will it be dinner?
Yes, yes, luncheon of course.

Excuse me for one moment, I must give some orders." He left the room.