Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/165

 phalanstery had been discarded for the costume of Piccadilly. The audience was too amazed to vociferate. They had not observed until Blake spoke that one of their number was missing, and it was some moments before they recognised that the immaculate person who confronted them was their late fellow-worker.

"Gentlemen," began Stranleigh, in his most conciliatory voice, but Harrison sprang to his feet.

"So this is the secret of the good cigars"

"That were stolen? Yes," said Stranleigh, with a smile.

"Never mind about that, my fine cock-a-doodle-doo. Before we allow you to speak, will you agree to give us eight shillings a day, and railway fare?"

"Yes," replied Stranleigh suavely, "if you force me to do so."

"We do force you."

"That is courageous," said Stranleigh, "when you realise that double your number of policemen surround this building. I am told that some of you are wanted very badly by the authorities, and I think you foolish to leave shelter and safety to go out once more into the cruel world. If you insist on eight shillings a day I shall of course accede to your request."