to the telephone.

"Hullo! That you, Jaff?"

"Yes, old man. Very much me. A devil of a lot of me. How are you?"

His strong bass boomed through the receiver. I have always found a
queer comfort in Jaffery's voice. It wraps you round about in thundering
waves. We exchanged the commonplaces of delighted greeting. I asked:

"When did you arrive?"

"A couple of days ago."

"Why on earth didn't you let me know at once?"

I heard him laugh. "I'll tell you when I see you. By the way, can
Barbara have me for the week-end?"

This was like Jaffery. Most men would have asked me, taking Barbara for
granted.

"Barbara would have you for the rest of time," said I. "And so would
Susan. I'll expect you by the 11 o'clock train."

"Right," said he.

"And, I say!"

"Yes?"