"He is without, sir."
"Let me see him."
Mr. Steele hesitated a moment.
"I have been disappointed in the man I wished to engage for the service."
"But you have another?" said Mr. Rowe quickly.
"Oh! yes."
"And a dependable man?"
"Quite dependable, to all appearance, and from his credentials."
"That is all that is necessary. His duties are onerous, but not burdensome. Let me see him."
Mr. Steele went out by the door behind the screen, and returned with an elderly man, dressed like the others. His hair, almost white, was cropped close to his head, and there was a forced composure in his face, as though he had been schooling himself for his task. Gideon Rowe scrutinised him keenly.