“Mr. Arthur Oldham,” he said.
The man started and peered curiously through the gloom at him.
“Why Anthony!” he exclaimed, and took his hand, “what is your business here?” And they began slowly to walk westwards together.
“I am come to meet Mr. Oldham,” he said, “and to give him a message; and this is it, ‘Come, for all things are now ready!’”
“My dear boy,” said James, stopping short, “you must forgive me; but what in the world do you mean by that?”
“I come from Mr. Roger,” said Anthony, “you need not be afraid. He has had an accident and sent for me.”
“Mr. Roger?” said James interrogatively.
“Yes,” said Anthony, “he hath a patch over one eye; and stutters somewhat.”
James gave a sigh of relief.
“My dear boy,” he said, “I cannot thank you enough. You know what it means then?”