and was about to go straight to the wash-house to make his toilet when
Mr. Green called him in.

"My friend, Mr. Widden," he said, with a satisfied air, as he pointed to
a slight, fair young man with a well-trimmed moustache.

Mr. Letts shook hands.

"Fine day," said Mr. Widden.

"Beautiful," said the other. "I'll come in and have a talk about it when
I've had a wash."

"Me and Miss Foster are going out for a bit of a stroll," said Mr.
Widden.

"Quite right," agreed Mr. Letts. "Much more healthy than staying indoors
all the evening. If you just wait while I have a wash and a bit o'
something to eat I'll come with you."

"Co-come with us!" said Mr. Widden, after an astonished pause.

Mr. Letts nodded. "You see, I don't know you yet," he explained, "and as
head of the family I want to see how you behave yourself. Properly
speaking, my consent ought to have been asked before you walked out with
her; still, as everybody thought I was drowned, I'll say no more about
it."

"Mr. Green knows all about me," said Mr. Widden, rebelliously.