“It’s a lovely evening Dave, isn’t it?”
“Yes,” replied Mr. Harkins, “it is a lovely evening.”
But he knew in his heart that the lawyer had not called to make this useless comment on the weather. He knew that something more important was to come, so he sat silent and waited.
“Dave,” said the lawyer, clearing his throat, “I’m here on a very, very unpleasant errand. It was in the line of my professional duty though, and I couldn’t get out of it.”
“Indeed,” was the non-committal reply.
“No,” pursued Mr. Coke, “you see I am here representing a client.”
“Might I ask the name of your client?”
“Yes; it is John Black.”
Mr. Harkins started as he heard this name. It was not altogether unexpected, yet the sound gave him an uncomfortable feeling. Mrs. Harkins, too, was very much depressed by the announcement. Herbert had entered the room quietly during the conversation; but when he heard what Mr. Coke had said, he paused at the threshold.
“Well,” said Mr. Harkins finally, “what about Mr. Black?”