"I will." Josiah's private room in the factory office building had been an impressive one, high-ceiled and flanked with a fire-place which was, however, never lighted.

Ancestral paintings and leather chairs had added their notes of distinction.

The office of any executive will generally reflect not only his own personality, but the character of the enterprise of which he stands at the head.

Looking in Josiah's room, I think you would have been impressed, either consciously or not, that Spencer & Son had dignity, wealth and a history behind it.

And regarding then the dark colouring of the appointments, devoid of either beauty or warmth, and feeling yourself impressed by a certain chilliness of atmosphere, I can very well imagine you saying to yourself "Not very cheerful!" But you wouldn't have thought this on the morning when Mary entered it in response to Burdon's suggestion.
A fire was glowing on the andirons.