But he was busily occupied with pencil and paper, and she received no encouragement unless it was from his studiously composed manner and general air of unconcern.

She did not know--nor did I know then--what uneasiness such an air may cover.
Mr.Fox had followed her glances, and perhaps understood his adversary better than she did; for he drew himself up with an appearance of satisfaction as he asked very quietly: "What material did you use in lighting the fire on the club-house hearth ?" "Wood from the box, and a little kindling I found there." "How large was this kindling ?" "Not very large; some few stray pieces of finer wood I picked out from she rest." "And how did you light these ?" "With some scraps of paper I brought in my bag ?" "Oh--you brought scraps ?" "Yes.

I had seen the box, seen the wood, but knew the wood would not kindle without paper.

So I brought some." "Did the fire light quickly ?" "Not very quickly." "You had trouble with it ?" "Yes, sir.

But I made it burn at last." "Are you in the habit of kindling fires in your own home ?" "Yes, on the hearth." "You understand them ?" "I have always found it a very simple matter, if you have paper and enough kindling." "And the draught is good." "Yes, sir." "Wasn't the draught good at the club-house ?" "Not at first." "Oh--not at first.