“Well of all the audacious—!” began Stratton, with a half laugh; but he was interrupted.

“Don’t waste words, sir; no time. The lady will be waiting.”

As he spoke Stratton saw the man’s eyes rest for a moment on the banknotes beneath the letter weight, and an undefined sensation of uneasiness attacked him. He mastered it in an instant, ignoring the last remark.

“Now, sir; you say you have business with me. Let me hear it, since I must—at once.”

“Ah, that’s businesslike. We shall be able to deal.”

“Say what you have to say.”

“When you sit down.”

Stratton let himself fall back into a chair.

“Now then. Quick!”

“You propose being married this morning.”