Joles made no reply, but went up to interview Mr. "Barkwick." The Stantons had so many applications from persons who needed charity for themselves or others that the standing order had gone forth to admit no stranger, under any pretext, unless of course he had complete credentials.
Herr Von Barwig was standing in the reception-room, hat in hand, when Joles entered.
"No card, eh? Ah—um—dear me," and Mr. Joles rubbed his chin in a perplexed way. He looked around, none of the pictures were missing, nor had the statuary been removed. But Denning shouldn't have asked the stranger into the reception-room.
Von Barwig ventured to say that he had an appointment. Mr. Joles nodded.
"Oh, you have an appointment! Written?"
"No," replied Von Barwig.
"Oh, verbal? At what hour?" questioned Mr. Joles.
"Three," answered Von Barwig.
"Are you quite sure?" inquired Mr. Joles doubtfully. "I have received no orders."
Von Barwig remained silent. What could he say? The man evidently doubted his word.