"Good evening, Mr. Hampden," he said politely. "Can I serve you again?"
"No," I said, a little taken aback at this greeting. "It is on your business I have come."
"And your companion down-stairs?" he said, looking at me out of half-closed oriental eyes.
"He may be of service in case--"
Big Sam raised his hand to check my speech and spoke in Chinese. At his words there was the soft sound of the closing of a door somewhere behind the screens.
"A prudent precaution," he said. "You have found a place for the girl?"
"Yes," I replied. "I must say I do not fully approve of what I am going to do. But it is not on account of your ward. Nothing could be better for her than what I have to offer."
Then I explained with some detail the plans that had been approved by Miss Kendrick. He listened with studious attention.
"Miss Kendrick is too kind," said Big Sam diplomatically. "She is young, I believe?"
I bowed.