"I'm so glad you have come," she exclaimed. "It is hard to send these
people away, but do you know, they have come from all parts of London?
Neither Mr. Flitch nor I can make them understand that we can only deal
with cases in the immediate neighbourhood. You must try."
Brooks stood up at once.
"I am very sorry," he said, "if there has been any misunderstanding, but
I want you all to remember this. It is impossible for us to deal with
any cases to-night unless you are residents of the immediate
neighbourhood. The list of streets is on the front door. Please do not
present yourselves before any of the desks unless you lodge or live in
one of them."
There was a murmur of disappointment, and in the background a few
growls.
"I hope before very long," Brooks continued, "that we shall have a great
many more branches open, and be able to offer help to all of you. But
at present we cannot make any exceptions. Will every one except our
neighbours please help us by leaving the room."
For the most part he was obeyed, and then one of the reporters touched
him on the shoulder.
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