He introduced the two men, and the Philosopher knew more of the Merchant than the Merchant did of the Philosopher.
"And now," continued Mr. Kirby pleasantly, but a little pompously (it was not in his nature to be pompous, but the occasion needed it), "now we all go upstairs. I 've asked one of Mr. McAuley's friends to dinner. He is also a friend of yours, Mr. Algernon," he said, turning to Booby kindly. "I don't know him myself, but Mr. McAuley vouches for him, and that ought to be enough for us, eh? By the way, just before we dine, would you mind coming into my sitting-room, all of you, there 's something I want to discuss—something that you all want to hear, I 'm sure, something political," he added, lest panic should seize the more guilty of the tribe.
He led the procession upstairs. Melba was waiting in the hall. Jimmy picked him up on the way, and squeezed his hand for courage.
They all filed into Mr. Kirby's private sitting-room, and they found it conveniently large.
As for their host, he began fussing about like a man who is arranging a meeting of directors, and finally took his seat at the head of the large table.
