As to Winwood, I have never met him, but I gather that he is one of those people whom you 'mustn't mind.' In a general way, I object to people who tacitly claim exemption from the ordinary rules of conduct that are held to be binding on their fellows.

But, as he promises to give us what the variety artists call 'an extra turn,' we will make the best of him and give him a run for his money." Here Thorndyke smiled mischievously--I understood the meaning of that smile later in the evening--and asked: "What do you think of the affair yourself ?" "I have given it up," I answered.

"To my paralysed brain, the Blackmore case is like an endless algebraical problem propounded by an insane mathematician." Thorndyke laughed at my comparison, which I flatter myself was a rather apt one.
"Come and dine," said he, "and let us crack a bottle, that our hearts may not turn to water under the frown of the disdainful Winwood.

I think the old 'Bell' in Holborn will meet our present requirements better than the club.

There is something jovial and roystering about an ancient tavern; but we must keep a sharp lookout for Mrs.Schallibaum." Thereupon we set forth; and, after a week's close imprisonment, I once more looked upon the friendly London streets, the cheerfully lighted shop windows and the multitudes of companionable strangers who moved unceasingly along the pavements..