"What now, Peter?" said Sir Richard, frowning darkly.
"Do you remember the bronze vase that used to stand on the mantelpiece in my study?"
"Bronze vase?" repeated Sir Richard, intent upon his whip again.
"I used to find bank-notes in it after you had visited me, and when I hid the vase they turned up just the same in most unexpected places."
"Young fellow—must have money—necessary—now and then," muttered Sir
Richard.
At this juncture, with a discreet knock, the butler appeared to announce that Sir Richard's horse was waiting. Hereupon the baronet, somewhat hastily, caught up his hat and gloves, and I followed him out of the house and down the steps.
Sir Richard drew on his gloves, thrust his toe into the stirrup, and then turned to look at me over his arm.
"Peter," said he.
"Sir Richard?" said I.
"Regarding your walking tour—"