"Someone has recommended me to you," began Mrs. Pennycherry; "may I
ask who?"

But the stranger waved the question aside as immaterial.

"You might not remember--him," he smiled. "He thought that I should
do well to pass the few months I am given--that I have to be in
London, here. You can take me in?"

Mrs. Pennycherry thought that she would be able to take the stranger
in.

"A room to sleep in," explained the stranger, "--any room will
do--with food and drink sufficient for a man, is all that I require."

"For breakfast," began Mrs. Pennycherry, "I always give--"

"What is right and proper, I am convinced," interrupted the stranger.
"Pray do not trouble to go into detail, Mrs. Pennycherry. With
whatever it is I shall be content."

Mrs. Pennycherry, puzzled, shot a quick glance at the stranger, but
his face, though the gentle eyes were smiling, was frank and serious.

"At all events you will see the room," suggested Mrs. Pennycherry,
"before we discuss terms."

"Certainly," agreed the stranger. "I am a little tired and shall be
glad to rest there."