Then with what he flattered himself was the art which conceals art, Mr. Hobhouse brought the conversation round to the subject of the doctor himself and his household. He enthusiastically assured his host that each arrangement he mentioned was the best imaginable--from the doctor's being a bachelor to his having no hot water laid on in the bathroom but large cans brought when necessary. And presently he blinked more amiably than ever and enquired, "And do you often have--er--guests, doctor; guests such as myself?" The doctor's geniality seemed suddenly to contract a little. "Occasionally," he said briefly. "Quite so," agreed Mr. Hobhouse. "Too often would be a great nuisance. Occasionally--yes, yes, that must be much pleasanter. Just when you feel inclined; I see. And I hope you get decent fellows as a rule, doctor. It would be very unpleasant otherwise." "It is," said Dr. Rendall with distinct emphasis. "I trust _I_ won't be a nuisance," said Mr. Hobhouse anxiously. "Oh, no, no," said the doctor hurriedly, "I was thinking of--" He broke off, and his amiable guest tactfully changed the subject. A little later, with what he hoped was equal tact, he returned to it again. Assuring the doctor of his anxiety to give no trouble, he said, "I'll do just as the last fellow did. You just put me into his shoes, doctor, and then you'll always know where you are." There was no doubt about the oddness of the glance which Dr. Rendall shot at his guest this time. His answer was a murmur that might have meant anything. Mr. Hobhouse innocently rattled on. "I presume he fitted into your ways all right and so will I if you tell me first what--er--you did mention his name--or didn't you?" "O'Brien," said the doctor. "O'Brien?" repeated Mr. Hobhouse with a distinct air of distaste for so mild a gentleman. The doctor looked at him quickly. "Do you know him?" he asked sharply. "Oh, no, no! Oh dear me, no! It's only that I have a very foolish and very stupid prejudice against Irishmen--as I presume he was." Mr. Hobhouse laughed pleasantly, and inwardly he laughed still more pleasantly, for his shot came off. "So have I," agreed the doctor, and there was no doubt that he was in earnest. Mr. Hobhouse decided that he had probed the matter sufficiently for the present, and with what he was now beginning to consider his usual tact he changed the subject. Before they parted that night he could not resist one touch of art despite the counsels of Sir Francis. "Before we go to bed, doctor," he said, with his most ingratiating smile, "do you think one little drop would do us any harm? I feel as though I might have a little cold coming on--" But the doctor was shaking his head, kindly but firmly. "Well, well, better not; I quite agree with you, doctor," gushed his guest. "Good-night, doctor. Good-night!"