“Bring him, by all means, then,” said Peace.
On the following day preparations were made at No. 4 for the reception of guests.
The owner of the establishment was overjoyed at the sale of the articles which he had been for a long time most anxious to get rid of, that he was disposed to make merry over the bargain.
He had ample funds at his disposal, and his friend Whittock was a special favourite with him, albeit the friendship between the two was not of very long standing.
It was arranged that Mrs. Thompson should be the hostess on this occasion—the elder female was to attend to the culinary department, and prepare the supper for the guests.
Peace arrayed himself in his best attire; William Ward was got up in a perfectly satisfactory manner, and Mrs. Thompson was carefully watched, so that she might be in a fit state to receive the company.
Some of Peace’s immediate neighbours had been invited; these were the first to arrive, after which Mr. Whittock presented himself. He brought with him Mr. and Master Harker, who were introduced in due form.
“I am greatly pleased to see you, and am glad to have an opportunity of making your acquaintance, sir,” said Peace, addressing himself to Mr. Harker. “As a friend of Mr. Whittock, you are specially welcome. Mr. Whittock and I understand each other.”
“You will shortly astonish the world with some excellent inventions, I expect,” returned Harker. “Well, this is not altogether a country for the inventor; America is the place.”
No. 70.