“This is a very different affair from your great, glittering modern restaurant,” Mr. Marchmont remarked.

“It is indeed,” said Blackmore, “and if this is the way in which our ancestors lived, it would seem that they had a better idea of comfort than we have.”

There was a short pause, during which Mr. Marchmont glared hungrily at the pudding; then Thorndyke said:

“So you refused to listen to reason, Mr. Blackmore?”

“Yes. You see, Mr. Marchmont and his partner had gone into the matter and decided that there was nothing to be done. Then I happened to mention the affair to Reuben Hornby, and he urged me to ask your advice on the case.”