"May I have a word with you, Mr. Medland?"
The speaker was dressed smartly, but not well, in a new suit of light clothes. He was tall and strongly built; a full grey beard made it a matter
of difficulty to distinguish his features clearly in the dim light.
"I beg pardon, I don't think I've the pleasure of knowing you, but I shall be very happy. What is it, sir?"
"A word in private," said the stranger, "if this gentleman will excuse me."
In response to a glance from his chief, Coxon said good-night and strolled on, hearing Medland say,
"I seem to know your voice, but I can't lay my hand on your name."
The stranger drew nearer to him.
"I pass by the name of Benham now," he said; "I haven't forgotten you. I've too good cause to remember you."
Medland looked at him closely.