"Mrs. Markham said you would be in in a minute; so I have waited."
"You are very kind to do so, Sir. Sit down."
"I have seen your advertisement in the 'Intelligencer.' You still think of establishing a school?"
"That is my intention."
"May I ask if you have been successful in obtaining pupils?"
"Not very. I have one engaged. I would like a dozen more, to begin with."
The gentleman took his hat. "Of course he will go, now he knows what my prospects are!" But Salmon was mistaken. The visitor seemed to have taken his hat merely for the sake of having something in his hands, to occupy them.
"Then perhaps you will be pleased to listen to my proposition?
"Certainly, Sir."
"My name is Plumley. I have established a successful classical school, as you may be aware. It is in G-Street."