Andrew went to the smoking-room, which proved to be unoccupied, but as he was leaving it Olcott came in.
"I stole away and followed you," he said. "Sit down a minute and light up."
"Cigars in that drawer," said Andrew, lighting a cigarette. "Drinks in the cupboard below."
Olcott took out two glasses and filled them.
"It's your house, but I feel at home."
"So you ought!"
Olcott raised his glass.
"Here's to you, old friend, and may you get with full measure, as you give! I can't wish you anything better." He put down his glass and continued: "And now we'll proceed to business. As soon as I'd had a talk with Clare I paid a check into your bank."
"Sure it's convenient?"
"Quite: I had my duties increased and, what was much less usual, a corresponding increase of pay. I'd rather have come over when you were alone, and I only got home yesterday, but Clare insisted on my appearing to-night. Can you guess the reason?"