By the way, I have been wondering how Mr.Blackmore managed about his washing." The porter evidently regarded this question with some disfavour, for he replied only with an interrogative grunt.

It was, in fact, rather an odd question.
"Did you get it done for him," Thorndyke pursued.
"No, certainly not, sir.

He got it done for himself.

The laundry people used to deliver the basket here at the lodge, and Mr.Blackmore used to take it in with him when he happened to be passing." "It was not delivered at his chambers, then ?" "No, sir.

Mr.Blackmore was a very studious gentleman and he didn't like to be disturbed.