"Ah! I'm a pernicious smoker." He lighted a cigarette, turned to Mr.
Torrington and nodded over his shoulder in the direction of Cranbourne.
"I'm afraid, sir, this gentleman took me at a disadvantage. To be
frank, I was hungry."
Mr. Torrington shook his head despondently.
"As the senior member of a firm of dyspeptics, established for over fifty years, I envy you."
"You needn't, sir,—it was pretty crucial. He offered me fifty quid to occupy this flat for twenty-one days and to say 'no' to any question that might be asked. I wasn't myself at the time—I accepted. Since then I've had a good meal and that alters things. I hope, gentleman, I shall cause you no inconvenience if I recall my promise." No one replied and he went on. "My grub cost three and a bender and I spent a bob in cigarettes." He fished some notes and silver from his pocket and planked them on the table. "That's your change, gentlemen, if someone would be good enough to count it over. You don't mind, I hope, if I return the margin when I'm in a better position to do so. Goodnight, gentlemen." He rose, nodded to the company and walked to the door.
Mr. Torrington did not look in his direction. He spoke gently as though addressing an electric fitting on the wall facing him.
"I am sorry, Mr. Tidd, you are indisposed to remain. My friend had no thought of offending when he offered the temporary accommodation you have just returned. It was our intention to reward the services of whoever assisted us in this matter with a sum that a gentleman might have no embarrassment in accepting. We should have been pleased to place five thousand pounds to your account."
Richard span round sharply.
"Five thousand—for being a caretaker—you—you're joking—rather unkindly."
"On the contrary I am speaking very earnestly indeed." The tone of voice was sincere.
Again Richard looked from one to another.