“Yes. And this is Mr. Robison?”
“Yes, sir!” Mr. Robison bowed very low, like a man who has lived abroad many years.
“Won't you be seated, sir?”
“Thank you, sir.” There was another bow of gratitude, and Mr. Robison sat down by Richards's flat-topped desk.
“What can we do for you, Mr. Robison?” asked Richards, amiably polite. His course of action would be determined by the stranger's own words.
“You can help me if you will.” Mr. Robison spoke very earnestly, after the manner of strong, self-reliant men when they ask for favors.
“We shall be glad to if you will tell me how.”
“By being patient. That's how.”
Richards laughed uncertainly. Mr. Robison held up a hand as if to check unseemly merriment and said, very seriously:
“I have lived alone too long to be politic or diplomatic or evasive. I wish to ask you a question.”