"He is, sir," said the servant admitting him rather hesitatingly.
"I wish to see him a few moments on business."
"It is no hour for business," said the voice of Mr. Lewis from over the balusters;--"I can't see anybody to-night."
"I ask but a few minutes," said Mr. Carleton. "It is important."
"It may be any thing!" said Thorn. "I won't do business after twelve o'clock."
Mr. Carleton desired the servant to carry his card, with the same request, to Mr, Thorn the elder.
"What's that?" said Thorn as the man came up stairs,--"my father?--Pshaw! he can't attend to it--Well, walk up, sir, if you please!--may as well have it over and done with it."
Mr. Carleton mounted the stairs and followed the young gentleman into an apartment to which he rapidly led the way.
"You've no objections to this, I suppose?" Thorn remarked as he locked the door behind them.
"Certainly not," said Mr. Carleton coolly, taking out the key and putting it in his pocket;--"my business is private--it needs no witnesses."