The Third Volume

“I think, Dormer,” said Spenser, while the man ministered to his wants, “you might call at Mudie’s this morning and get me a copy of the new novel, ‘A Whim of Fate,’ by John Parver. I heard last night it contained a description of Thorston.” “Very good, sir,” replied Dormer, noting the name in his pocketbook. “And take a seat for me at the Curtain Theater, in the fifth row of the stalls, not too near the side.” “Anything else, sir?” “I think not,” said Spenser, taking a morsel of toast. “I am going down to Richmond by the twelve o’clock train to lunch with Mr. Freak. Lay out the serge suit.” Dormer saluted in a military fashion, and disappeared, leaving Spenser to skim the paper and finish his breakfast. Methodical as ever, first read the leading articles, then passed to the city news, perused the general information, and wound up with a glance at the advertisements. In such order he ever proceeded, and never by any chance thought of beginning with the advertisements and working back to the leading article. Habit was everything with Tait. As usual, his day’s program was carefully sketched out, and he knew what he was about to do with every moment of his time from noon till midnight. But his plans on this special day were upset at the outset, for scarcely had he lighted his morning pipe than the door was thrown open and a visitor was announced.