Whether he was the sort who would be communicative or not, Bryce could not tell from outward signs, but he was going to try, and he presently found his card-case, took out a card, and strolling down the garden to the shady spot in which Glassdale sat, assumed his politest and suavest manner and presented himself.
"Allow me, sir," he said, carefully abstaining from any mention of names.

"May I have the pleasure of a few minutes' conversation with you ?" Glassdale cast a swift glance of surprise, not unmingled with suspicion, at the intruder--the sort of glance that a man used to watchfulness would throw at anybody, thought Bryce.

But his face cleared as he read the card, though it was still doubtful as he lifted it again.
"You've the advantage of me, sir," he said.

"Dr.Bryce, I see.

But--" Bryce smiled and dropped into a garden chair at Glassdale's side.
"You needn't be afraid of talking to me," he answered.