But now Sir Geoffrey's haggard face looked as if it had been seeking refuge in the hands, one of which he held out in kindly greeting.
"So it's you, Ned!--like old times. I'm glad to see you back again, my boy."
"And I'm glad to be back, sir," he replied, paused, and then feeling there was no good in beating about the bush, made a plunge.
"I've got something to say to you, sir. We are leaving to-morrow morning, and I may not have another opportunity----" he paused again.
"Not much time before dinner," said Sir Geoffrey, consulting his watch. "But fire away. Going to get married?--eh?"
"Perhaps," said Ned coolly, "but this is about the hotel."
"Damn the hotel! What's up now?" Never was curse more heartily or more hopelessly given. "Well--go on."
"I don't know who is responsible for installing the electric light, but it isn't safe. The wires are always fusing. They keep it very dark, but my friend--who is a bit of an electrical engineer himself--found out when he was awake last night----"
Sir Geoffrey's face was hidden by his hand again as he interrupted Ned with a short laugh.
"Oh! that's it--why, they always 'krab' each other's work--always! And--and your money's safe enough now; the place is insured."