I at once endeavoured to communicate with you, but found that you were in Paris.
It was manifest that, if action was to be taken at all, it must be taken instantly, and, believing that, if I could have advised you, you would have told me to clear at any cost, I sold your cheque within the hour for ninety-two thousand pounds.
Particularly in view of the fact that this is your first transaction with us, I need hardly say that I am greatly relieved to see from the evening papers that our disregard of your instructions was apparently justified.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
E.S. Nield,
Manager.
For a long time neither spoke.
Presently Jean touched Oliver on the arm and pointed to the old grey house.
“It’s for sale, isn’t it?” she faltered.