"The people who want to take a house are the born enemies of the people
who want to let a house. Odd--isn't it, Vanborough?"

Mr. Vanborough's sullen humor resisted his friend as obstinately as it
had resisted his wife.

"I dare say," he answered. "I wasn't listening."

This time the tone was almost brutal. Mrs. Vanborough looked at her
husband with unconcealed surprise and distress.

"John!" she said. "What _can_ be the matter with you? Are you in pain?"

"A man may be anxious and worried, I suppose, without being actually in
pain."

"I am sorry to hear you are worried. Is it business?"

"Yes--business."

"Consult Mr. Kendrew."

"I am waiting to consult him."

Mrs. Vanborough rose immediately. "Ring, dear," she said, "when you
want coffee." As she passed her husband she stopped and laid her hand
tenderly on his forehead. "I wish I could smooth out that frown!" she
whispered. Mr. Vanborough impatiently shook his head. Mrs. Vanborough
sighed as she turned to the door. Her husband called to her before she
could leave the room.