“I suggested we should hinder them,” said Mr. Beebe. “They are worth it.” Unlatching the gate, he sauntered over the triangular green to Cissie Villa. “Hullo!” he cried, shouting in at the open door, through which much squalor was visible.

A grave voice replied, “Hullo!”

“I've brought some one to see you.”

“I'll be down in a minute.”

The passage was blocked by a wardrobe, which the removal men had failed to carry up the stairs. Mr. Beebe edged round it with difficulty. The sitting-room itself was blocked with books.

“Are these people great readers?” Freddy whispered. “Are they that sort?”