"I hope not. You were always a quiet boy; but I have observed that you were not deficient in firmness."
"I hope you don't think me obstinate, Squire Selwyn," said John, smiling.
"No, I don't think you that."
"If I find myself in the wrong I am always ready to confess it and give up."
"That's right, my lad. It's a thing that some of us who are much older than you find it hard to do. By the way, I suppose you wonder how I happen to be here so opportunely for you."
"I have been wondering all the time, but did not like to ask."
"One of my clients placed some business in my hands relating to property which required me to consult the county records of this county."
"You didn't come through by the stage?"
"No, I thought it too long and tedious. So I came by a roundabout way which left me only twenty miles' staging. I travelled a greater number of miles than you, but in considerably less time. Now, John, is there anything more I can do for you before I set about the particular business which called me here?"