I gave Doctor Lanyon time to compose himself, and then continued with my disquisition. 'Did you ever come across a protégé of his -- one Hyde?' I asked.

'Hyde?' repeated Lanyon. 'No. Never heard of him. Since my time.' His manner was short, and I rethought the importance of the dispute between the two, however Lanyon would not be drawn, and the evening which had seemed so pleasant drew to a somewhat abrupt end.