It was nearly eight when John Wade landed in the city. It was half-past
eight when he stood on the steps of his uncle's residence and rang the
bell.

"Is my uncle is Mr. Wharton--at home?" he asked of the servant who
answered the bell.

"Yes, sir."

"I am his nephew, just arrived from Europe. Let him know that I am here,
and would like to see him."

The servant, who had never before seen him, having only been six months
in the house, regarded him with a great deal of curiosity, and then went
to do his biding.

"My nephew arrived!" exclaimed Mr. Wharton, in surprise. "Why, he never
let me know he was coming."

"Will you see him, sir?"

"To be sure! Bring him in at once."

"My dear uncle!" exclaimed John Wade, with effusion, for he was a polite
man, and could act when it suited his interests to do so, "I am glad to
see you. How is your health?"

"I am getting older every day, John."