I am free till nearly four o'clock.

We have a guest to tea then." "I have a well-developed bump of curiosity these days.

Who is it, may I ask ?" "Mr.Siddle, the local chemist." "Indeed.

An old friend, I suppose ?" "We have known him seven years, ever since he came to Steynholme." "Ah.

He is not a native of the place ?" "No.