He remained at the doorway with undisguised interest, examining the unfamiliar surroundings with the defiance of one prejudiced against the profession.
Bofinger, who divided humanity into those who could pay and those who could not, satisfied on this score despite the poverty of the habiliment, rose and said:
"Come in, take a seat."
The visitor with a start removed his hat, discovering a fleeing forehead matted with coarse dark hair, and sliding forward ten feet fell into a chair. Standing his hands had obtruded, seated he sought to conceal his feet. Then suddenly, speaking from the corner of his mouth, he said:
"You're rather young."
"I have been fortunate," Bofinger said modestly, concealing his astonishment at this opening, by pretending to discover a tribute.
"Close-mouthed?"
"As an undertaker."
"Honest?"
"What, sir!"