This was a fairly familiar method of address from a perfect stranger, even in a land of generally prevailing free-and-easiness, and Lamont stiffened.
“Let me see, I know the voice,” he said, staring at the new arrival. “But—”
The other laughed.
“Thought I’d give you a little surprise,” he said. “I’m Ancram. We were staying at Courtland together, don’t you remember?”
“Oh yes—perfectly. Come in. I didn’t recognise you at first because—er—”
“I haven’t had a shave for a week,” supplemented the other, with an easy laugh. “Well, we can put that right now.”
“It did make a difference certainly. Well, and how are you, Ancram?”
“Hallo!” sung out Peters, appearing at the door. “Brought off your surprise yet, Ancram? He said I wasn’t to give away his name, Lamont, because he wanted to spring a surprise on you. Ha-ha!”