"Circumstances necessitate that I shall have an interview with you immediately on a very important matter. Will you kindly let me have a note by return of post when and where I can see you? I may add that the matter is of such importance that you must not think of refusing me."
The next day he received a type-written letter from Wilson, in the third person:
"Mr. Edward Wilson is sorry that he cannot see Mr. Paul Stepaside, as there is no conceivable matter on which he could think of granting him an interview."
Paul read this curt note with a grim smile upon his lips and an almost murderous look in his eyes. But he made no comment.
Before many hours were over he had discovered Wilson's whereabouts, and had determined to waylay him. They met in a lane not far from Howden Clough.
"Mr. Wilson," said Paul. "Just a word, please."
Ned looked at him with great hauteur, and then was about to pass by without further notice.
"No," said Paul, "That will not do. You received my letter."
"And you received mine."
"That was why I followed you here," said Paul. "I told you that the matter on which I wished to see you was of the utmost importance."