Barry Pain

“ He had given general instructions that it was never to meet him unless ordered; that little walk from the station to his house was often the only exercise that he got in the day, and he valued that exercise for his health's sake. ”

“ Yes, it was better — much better. It had brought it down to seventeen words, but seventeen words cost eightpence halfpenny, and a telegram can be sent for sixpence. "Can be!" he exclaimed. "It must be — it shall be! It shall be got down to twelve words, if I die in the attempt."
A clerk knocked and entered. A Royal Duke had called to see Eugene Vandergould by appointment. The millionaire stamped his foot impatiently. ”

“ Vandergould, The Hall, Dollington. Find I can be back to dinner after all. Am taking special train, reaching Dollington at seven. Send carriage to meet it. Am bringing Henry with me."
Once more counted the words. There were thirty-two of them, and a telegram of thirty-two words costs one shilling and fourpence instead of the normal sixpence. A spasm of pain passed over the millionaire's face, and he turned hurriedly to the second paper. It was as follows —
"Vandergould, Hall, Dollington. Find can return dinner. Taking special. Arrive Dollington seven. Send carriage meet. Bringing Henry." ”