“Can you stay with me a few minutes?”
“I daren’t, dear; I am late now, and— Yes, I understand. I will.”
It was Richmond’s turn to display her firmness, and mastering a nervous trepidation which she felt, she bent down, kissed her friend, and, with a meaning pressure of the hand, said “good-bye,” and ushered the fresh visitor, who was busily turning a crimson silk handkerchief round a painfully glossy hat, into the dining-room.
“Thankye,” he said, sitting down, but jumping up again, and placing another chair, “beg pardon, won’t you sit down? I’m in no hurry if the doctor’s engaged.”
He nervously seized a very thick gold chain, and dragged a great gold watch from his pocket to consult.
“Eleven,” he said; “thought I’d come and see him as I went into the City. Nothing the matter, much, but it’s as well to see your medical man.”
“I’ll tell my father you are here, Mr Poynter.”
“No, don’t hurry. I’m very busy at my place, but plenty of time. How’s Hendon?”
“My brother is quite well.”
“Is he, now? That’s right. Fine thing, good health, ain’t it?”