Sir Evelyn did not and said so, holding out his glass for more beer. If he had to pay five shillings for his drink he felt entitled to quench his thirst.
"Perhaps you know Mrs. Eames, sir," said Hinton, pouring out the beer. "A remarkable lady, Mrs. Eames, if I may say so without disrespect. A very remarkable lady, though a little trying at times to the vicar."
Sir Evelyn took no more interest in Mrs. Eames than he did in the vicar. He was not a rural dean, nor an archdeacon, and his visit to Hailey Compton had nothing to do with the church.
"But of course not, sir," said Hinton. "It's not to be expected that you would know Mrs. Eames or the vicar."
Then he waited, hoping to hear what had brought Sir Evelyn to Hailey Compton. He was not disappointed.
"I understand," said Sir Evelyn, "that there is a remarkable sea cave in this neighbourhood."
James Hinton talked fluently and agreeably about the cave. He described its position and how to get to it. He congratulated Sir Evelyn on having arrived in Hailey Compton at a fortunate hour.
"Not altogether fortunate, sir, as regards the beer. But if you wish to visit the cave you could hardly have come at a better time."
The cave, it appeared, was accessible on foot only between half-tide and low water. At other times it must be approached by boat, and landing, except in calm weather, was difficult.
"According to local tradition, sir, the cave was at one time largely used by smugglers. But no doubt you know more about that than I do."