There were other things that he might have said, but they did not
seem to suggest themselves. All the smooth and biting sentences
which his mind had held in readiness for this moment faded and died
before the stunning knowledge of their own inadequacy. Surprise,
pure and simple, stamped them down.

"Unpardonable, my not being at home to receive you," went on this
amazing old gentleman. "But the exact time of your coming was
somewhat indefinite. Still, I am displeased with myself, much
displeased. You slept well, I trust?"

The professor was understood to say that he had slept well.

Dr. Farr sighed. "Youth!" he murmured, waving his umbrella. "Oh,
youth!"

"Quite so," said the professor. There was a dryness in his tone not
calculated to encourage rhapsody. The old gentleman's gurgle changed
to a note of practical helpfulness.

"You wish to bathe, I see. I will not detain you. Our sylvan
bathroom you will find just down the trail and behind those alders.
Pray take your time. You will be quite undisturbed."

With another dry "Thank you," the professor passed on. He was
limping slightly, otherwise he would have passed on much faster. His
instinct was to seek cover before giving vent to the emotion which
consumed him.

Behind the alders, and taking the precaution of stuffing his mouth