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132 "Oh, yes," replied Binns.

"I had a letter this morning from the District Council, which informs me that the plans were not submitted to the proper official before the buildings were erected, and that we had therefore no authorisation to proceed."

"Oh, I am sorry to hear that. Lord Stranleigh. Didn't Mr. Wilson know that he must supply the plans to the District Council?"

"Wilson says that was your business."

"Oh, not at all, my lord. I merely supplied the plans and sent down proper experts to see that the builders followed instructions. Your Mr. Wilson gave out the contract, and, I believe, purchased the material. If he had placed the whole matter in my hands I should, of course, have seen that all formalities were carried out, or even though I had nothing to do with letting the contract, had Mr. Wilson asked me to submit the plans, I should very cheerfully have done so."

"Then it is entirely his fault?"

"Undoubtedly, my lord."

"What would you advise me to do, Mr. Binns?"

"Oh, you'll not have any trouble at all, Lord Stranleigh. You're the big man of the place, and those District Councils are usually made up of tradesmen and a few professionals who will take good care not to offend so powerful a neighbour as yourself. Still, I should choose the most urbane and suave solicitor you possess and send him down