As we stepped apart, I saw a glint of reflected firelight in his eyes, where a tear had escaped him. I too was moved by the occasion and was about to tell him so when there came a knock at the door and he bade me sit while he once again went to answer the door.

A moment later, he brought through his guest and I was delighted to see that it was Utterson. He looked as surprised to see me as I was him, and I knew then that this was going to be a night to remember. I bid him welcome and then settled myself back in my chair to enjoy myself.