The younger merchant had long felt vaguely that the major's social position, combined with his impecuniosity and the looseness of his morality, as inferred from his mode of life, might some day make him a valuable agent under delicate circumstances.

As to the old soldier's own inclinations, Ezra flattered himself that he knew the man's nature to a nicety.

It was simply a question of the price to be paid.

No doubt the figure would be substantial, but he recognized with a trader's instinct that the article was a superior one, and he was content to allow for the quality in estimating the value.
Early one April afternoon the major was strutting down St.James's Street, frock-coated and kid-gloved, with protuberant chest and glittering shoes which peeped out from beneath the daintiest of gaiters.
Young Girdlestone, who had been on the look-out from a club window, ran across and intercepted him.
"How are you, my dear major ?" he cried, advancing upon him with outstretched hand and as much show of geniality as his nature permitted.
"How d'ye do?
How d'ye do ?" said the other somewhat pompously.

He had made up his mind that nothing was to be done with the young man, and yet he was reluctant to break entirely with one whose purse was well lined and who had sporting proclivities.
"I've been wishing to speak with you for some days, major," said Ezra.
"When could I see you ?" "You'll niver see me any plainer than you do at this very moment," the old soldier answered, taking a sidelong glance of suspicion at his companion.
"Ah, but I wish to speak to you quietly on a matter of business," the young merchant persisted.