When can we dine together and talk about crime ?" "The sooner the better," Francis replied promptly.

"Invite me, and I will cancel any other engagement I might happen to have." Sir Timothy considered for a moment.

The June sunshine was streaming down upon them and the atmosphere was a little oppressive.
"Will you dine with me at Hatch End to-night ?" he asked.

"My daughter and I will be alone." "I should be delighted," Francis replied promptly.

"I ought to tell you, perhaps, that I have called three times upon your daughter but have not been fortunate enough to find her at home." Sir Timothy was politely apologetic.
"I fear that my daughter is a little inclined to be morbid," he confessed.