To a counter-clerk:
“Kindly inform Mr. Ritzmann,” he said, “that the gentleman he is expecting will see him.”
“Yes, sir. Certainly, sir. Will you take a seat!”
This, the shop staff were decided, was either a distinguished Russian composer or a gentleman of title interested in a new musical comedy for the “Gaiety.”
A moment later:
“Mr. Ritzmann will see you at once, sir. This way, if you please.”
O’Hagan swung grandly office-ward, and entered to find Ritzmann standing to greet him.
The clerk was about to retire.
“My good fellow,” called O’Hagan, “Mr. Ritzmann and I are not to be interrupted upon any account.”
The clerk bowed and retired. Ritzmann stared.