"Shake!" I said, of a sudden, after a full minute's silence, and briskly extended my hand.
He responded somewhat slowly and doubtfully to my invitation. But I tore off my goggles, and looking him straight and keenly in the eyes, seized his hand. I squeezed it with all my strength, then pointed to a chair.
He obeyed with a wince, wringing his hand the while.
"Really, Mr. Hume," he began, with a deprecating frown, "I am at a loss——"
"One second!" I interrupted, and deftly removed my beard.
He gave me one quick astonished look, then sprang to his feet, his eyes alight, his face flushing with excitement.
"Is it possible?" he cried.
"You know me," I demanded.
"Why sir, of course!"
"But we have never met!" I cried, frowning blackly.