"Yes, sir. I am to conduct you to Mr. Taylor."
"Just so. How is his health?"
"He has had an attack of rheumatism, but is better."
"No wonder he is sick, living in that out-of-the-way place. Do you know him well?"
"Pretty well, sir. I am in his employ."
"Ha! then he is living a little more as he should do. What is your name?"
"Mark Manning."
"M. M. Just so. Sounds like a fancy name. Is it?"
"No, sir; it's all the name I have," said Mark smiling.
"How long have you been in the employ of Mr. Taylor?"