"It is my province to convince you, sir, that by momentarily disregarding the ordinary rules of courtesy which hold in your profession, you may secure a client whose business will yield you greater profit than that of any dozen others whom you have. Nay, sir, I speak on hearsay, but advisedly, for my master is well aware of the substantial undertakings of your firm." "Your master must be a large operator," he muttered with a gasp. I smiled. "He is, indeed." "And his name?" "I am forbidden to relate it, sir." He frowned and gazed at me, the most puzzled and astonished man in London. "What do you want, then," he demanded. "My master wishes you to call upon him, Mr. Sims. He is unable to visit you, for reasons which he will personally explain if you will comply with his request!" "This is most unusual!" he replied. "Where is he to be found?" "I can only tell you, sir, if you consent to give me your word, as a man of honour, that you will go to see him at three o'clock this afternoon. I should tell you, Mr. Sims, that if you refuse, your own will be the only disadvantage." "I--I--I never heard of such a thing in my life!" he stammered. "But--but--in any case, I cannot go--at three o'clock. I have a pressing business engagement." I got to my feet, smiling contemptuously. "Then I have only to thank you for your patience, Mr. Sims," I said, with an expressive shoulder shrug. "Good-morning, sir!" "I could go at four!" he cried, of a sudden. I glanced at him, and perceived that the day was mine. Curiosity was simply eating the man. I smiled and, shook my head. "My master said Three!" "With a great effort, I could make it half-past. What do you say, Mr. Brown; shall we split the difference?" "I cannot, Mr. Sims. I would be dismissed at once." "Then, three." "And your word of honour, sir?" He nodded. I liked that nod. "You will find my master at the Golden Grove Hotel, in Lambert Road," I said. "Kindly ask for Mr. Agar Hume." His face fell, and he looked absurdly disappointed. "Agar Hume! Lambert Road!" he muttered in amazed disgust. "Believe me, sir, it is unwise to judge men by the sounds of names, which may or not belong to them. Stelfox Steele imparts a strangely furtive signification to the ear, and yet its owner is about the richest man and biggest operator on our little globe. I congratulate you upon your determination. A little later you will congratulate yourself. But in the meanwhile, let me recommend you to keep our interview a secret even from your partner. My master will be best pleased so. Good-morning, Mr. Sims!" "One second!" he gasped. "Am I to understand--er--that--er--Mr. Stelfox Steele----" "Is on his way to America," I interrupted sharply. "Good-morning, sir!" Whereupon, hastily unfastening the door, I made my escape before he had time to say another word.