long grown accustomed to the quaint effect with which the footfalls of
a single person, while he is still a great way off, suddenly spring out
distinct from the vast hum and clatter of the city. Yet his attention
had never before been so sharply and decisively arrested; and it was
with a strong, superstitious prevision of success that he withdrew into
the entry of the court.
The steps drew swiftly nearer, and swelled out suddenly louder as they
turned the end of the street. The lawyer, looking forth from the entry,
could soon see what manner of man he had to deal with. He was small and
very plainly dressed and the look of him, even at that distance, went
somehow strongly against the watcher s inclination. But he made
straight for the door, crossing the roadway to save time; and as he
came, he drew a key from his pocket like one approaching home.
Mr. Utterson stepped out and touched him on the shoulder as he passed.
Mr. Hyde, I think?
Mr. Hyde shrank back with a hissing intake of the breath. But his fear
was only momentary; and though he did not look the lawyer in the face,
he answered coolly enough: That is my name. What do you want?
I see you are going in, returned the lawyer. I am an old friend of
Dr. Jekyll s Mr. Utterson of Gaunt Street you must have heard of my
name; and meeting you so conveniently, I thought you might admit me.
You will not find Dr. Jekyll; he is from home, replied Mr. Hyde,
blowing in the key. And then suddenly, but still without looking up,
How did you know me? he asked.
On your side, said Mr. Utterson will you do me a favour?
With pleasure, replied the other. What shall it be?
Will you let me see your face? asked the lawyer.
Mr. Hyde appeared to hesitate, and then, as if upon some sudden
reflection, fronted about with an air of defiance; and the pair stared
at each other pretty fixedly for a few seconds. Now I shall know you
again, said Mr. Utterson. It may be useful.
11