“No, but the stairs is so dark.”

“No, no, I can see.⁠ ⁠… Thank you, indeed.”

“Are you right now?”

“All right, thanks.⁠ ⁠… Thanks.”

Mr. Henchy returned with the candlestick and put it on the table. He sat down again at the fire. There was silence for a few moments.

“Tell me, John,” said Mr. O’Connor, lighting his cigarette with another pasteboard card.

“Hm?”

“What he is exactly?”