"That is a great pity for the poor fellow," he said.
"But that's not the worst," said Purvis.
"No?"
"No; it's an awful pity, but he's a hard drinker."
"Ah, I'm very sorry, for he struck me as a man with great possibilities."
Mr. Castlemaine did not seem to enjoy Purvis's conversation, and he moved into the hall, to bid his guests good-night.
During the ride to London Leicester was very silent. The car swept swiftly along the now almost empty roads, and presently stood outside the club where we first met the man whose story I am trying to tell.
Directly they entered the smoking-room, Leicester ordered a large whisky, which he drank quickly. It seemed as though his abstinence at Mr. Castlemaine's had caused cravings which he was eager to appease.
"Well," said Purvis presently, "you've taken the first step."
"Yes, I've taken the first step."