"I expect you would," laughed the youth, in his superior wisdom.
With Mrs. Eccles Quarles's method was still foolish. For some time he did not mention Mr. Portman, and so silly was he that I should not have been surprised had the woman been less respectful in her manner. But he set her talking as he had set the clerk talking, and she was presently explaining that the guest her master was expecting to dine with him must have been of considerable importance, because the preparations were elaborate.
"He's never given such a dinner before," said Mrs. Eccles, "and I suggested that with such preparation he might have asked other guests."
"And the wine?" asked Quarles.
"He said he would look after that himself."
"Very natural," answered the professor. "You've been with Mr. Portman many years, haven't you?"
"Fourteen or more."
"So long! I wonder if you remember a young friend of mine who used to come here, I think. Ten or eleven years ago it must be. He squinted and had red hair."
"I do remember him," said Mrs. Eccles. "He came here to dine once, I recollect. I believe Mr. Portman said he was going abroad. I know he dined here, and I do not think I saw him again."
Quarles nodded.