"I am glad you approve. I not only want your approval, but your co-operation also. Will you help me?"
"To the utmost of my ability."
"I do not intend beginning for a month or so; but as I shall then be away, I shall be unable to ensure the carrying out of my plans unless I can count on the friendly supervision, however slight, of someone who would take an interest in the work of renovation and improvement——"
"And," interrupted the banker with a cordial smile, "you wish to know if I would undertake to see your wishes carried out. Nothing in the world could give me greater pleasure. I do not think you could suggest anything I would more gladly undertake."
"Allow me to explain a little."
"I assure you no explanation is necessary."
"Excuse me, I think it is. It would be the height of impertinence in me to ask you to do anything of the kind, but——"
"But that you know I shall always be only too glad to be of any service to Sir William Midharst."
"You really overwhelm me with your goodness. I feel very much at taking such favours from one who has known me so short a time."
"When people are well met, good-feeling ripens very quickly. Do you, Sir William, believe in love at first sight?"