“Most willing, sir. When shall I begin? I’m growing rusty from disuse.”
Mr Penwynn sat thinking for a few moments, gazing at Geoffrey, and then he began,—
“Rundell and Sharp spoke most highly of you, Mr Trethick.”
“I thank them for their good opinion, sir.”
“They said that you were a man most thoroughly to be trusted, and that you were conscientious to a degree.”
“Indeed, sir,” said Geoffrey, sharply. “When did they say that?”
Mr Penwynn was a little taken aback, but he recovered himself, and said with a smile,—
“In a letter that I have received from them.”
“Then you have been writing to make further inquiries about me, Mr Penwynn.”
“Well—yes, I have.”