'I don't think it is. One gets to know the tug of an old boot.'

'I leave it with confidence in your hands, Emmanuel. And in Daintry's too, of course.'

'Suppose we don't agree?'

'Then it must be your decision. You are my deputy in this affair. But for G.o.d's sake, Emmanuel, don't do anything rash.'

'I'm only rash when I'm in my Jaguar, John. When I'm fis.h.i.+ng I have a great deal of patience.'

THE END.