indeed. My ways are very simple. I should make the bed myself,
and--and, do the other little things that are necessary from day to
day. Perhaps I might ask you to sweep the room out--once a week or
so.'

The landlady grew meditative. Possibly she had had experience of
lodgers who were anxious to give as little trouble as possible. She
glanced furtively at the stranger.

'And what,' was her question at length, 'would you be thinking of
paying?'

'Perhaps I had better explain my position. For several years I have
been companion to a lady in Hampshire. Her death has thrown me on my
own resources--I hope only for a short time. I have come to London
because a younger sister of mine is employed here in a house of
business; she recommended me to seek for lodgings in this part; I
might as well be near her whilst I am endeavouring to find another
post; perhaps I may be fortunate enough to find one in London.
Quietness and economy are necessary to me. A house like yours would
suit me very well--very well indeed. Could we not agree upon terms
within my--within my power?'

Again the landlady pondered.

'Would you be willing to pay five and sixpence?'

'Yes, I would pay five and sixpence--if you are quite sure that
you could let me live in my own way with satisfaction to yourself.
I--in fact, I am a vegetarian, and as the meals I take are so very