He was evidently expected, for he was shown into the study without a word.

Here Miss Rowly and Stephen joined him.

Both were very kind in manner.

After the usual greetings and commonplaces Stephen said in a brisk, businesslike way: 'Have you the papers with you ?' He took the bundle of accounts from his pocket and handed them to her.

After his previous experience he would have suggested, had he dared, that he should see Stephen alone; but he feared the old lady.