"It generally is nowadays. Show him in."
The servant retired, and, ushering in Mr. Loveday, left the room.
"Well, sir?" said Mr. Manners. The contractor did not speak uncivilly, for the appearance of Mr. Loveday, who was fairly well attired, was in his favor; he might be a smaller contractor, or an inventor, or anything that was respectable.
"I have ventured to visit you, sir," said Mr. Loveday, without first seeking an introduction, "upon a matter of importance."
"My servant said upon particular business."
"He was scarcely correct, sir. I can hardly call my errand business, but it is no less important than the most important business."
"It is usual to send in a card, or a name."
"My name you will probably recognize, and I did not give it to the servant from fear that you might have refused to see me."
"This sounds like an intrusion. What may be your name?"
"Loveday, sir."