When he returned from luncheon, Bassett had gone, but he reappeared at three o'clock, and a little later Atwill came back and the door closed again.
This second interview was short, but it seemed to leave Bassett in a meditative frame of mind.

Wishing to discuss some points in the trial balance of the receiver's accountant, Harwood entered and found Bassett with his hat on, slowly pacing the floor.
"Yes; all right; come in," he said, as Harwood hesitated.

He at once addressed himself to the reports with his accustomed care.

Bassett carried an immense amount of data in his head.

He understood bookkeeping and was essentially thorough.