"Yes, yes, that's true, of course," assented the other. "As a matter of fact, I have suggested to him several times myself that he was overtaxing his strength. The only thing that surprises me is his proposal that you should live in the house." He paused. "If you won't think me inquisitive, may I ask how you came to make his acquaintance?" "There was nothing very remarkable about it," said Colin. "I happen to be house surgeon at St. Christopher's, and Sir George Onslow, one of the visiting physicians, was good enough to mention my name to him." "I have often heard of St. Christopher's," returned Mr. Medwin pleasantly. "A client of mine, Lord Cleveland, was vice-chairman for several years. You'll find your new existence rather dull, won't you, after the life and bustle of a big hospital?" "I don't expect to," said Colin. "I am extremely interested in research work, and from what I have seen of the Professor I think we shall get along together very nicely." As he spoke they came out into the High Street, and, not knowing which way to turn, he glanced inquiringly at his companion. "Straight across the road," said Mr. Medwin. "It's only just round the corner out of Kensington Square." They made their way through the traffic, and a few minutes' walk brought them to a row of small white, semi-detached houses, each one standing back behind a narrow strip of garden. Mr. Medwin pulled up in front of the third, and opened the gate for Colin. "This is my chateau," he announced. "Not quite so magnificent as the Red Lodge, but it does well enough for a middle-aged bachelor." He proceeded up the path, and, unlocking the front door, ushered Colin into a tiny hall, the walls of which were hung round with valuable sporting prints. "I prefer a small house to a flat," he continued, "and I am lucky enough to have a French manservant and his wife, who run the entire place for me." He opened a door to the left, and, switching on the electric light, revealed a charmingly furnished dining-room. "Perhaps you won't mind waiting in here for a moment," he added. "You will find some whisky and soda and a box of cigarettes on the sideboard. Make yourself at home while I go and fetch the papers." With another genial smile he disappeared into the opposite apartment, and, accepting his invitation, Colin strolled across the room and helped himself to a cigarette. It was quite evident that, although he was contented with a small house, Mr. Medwin was a gentleman of taste and means. The fine Persian carpet, the harmoniously coloured curtains, and the admirably preserved Chippendale chairs could only have been the choice of a man who was blessed with an ample income and a cultivated feeling for beautiful surroundings.