"Yes, go on," she interjected, suddenly.
"Who at the present time," he continued, slowly, "is actually living by imposing on the credulity and good nature of other people."
"How so?"
"How so? He is spending money right and left, I am told, on some pretended invention, or discovery of his, which is to revolutionise one of the staple industries of the county. Of course, the whole thing is a fake. You may be quite sure of that. But whose money is he spending? He has none of his own. With his glib tongue I have no doubt he has imposed on a lot of people to lend him their savings. Honourable conduct, isn't it? Perhaps he is trying to interest you in his invention?"
"No, he is not."
"Not got sufficiently far yet. Oh, well, it will do you no harm to be warned in time."
"You take a charitable view of your neighbours, Gervase."
"My dear Madeline, charity is all right in its place. But in this world we must be guided by common-sense."
They had reached the house, and were standing facing each other to continue the conversation.
"Well?" she interrogated.