‘I’m very sorry’ – he spoke very earnestly – ‘but Mr Kuroda isn’t home at present. I wonder, sir, are you perhaps a work associate?’ ‘In a manner of speaking. There were a few matters I wished to discuss with Mr Kuroda.’ ‘In that case, perhaps you’d be so good as to come in and wait. I’m sure Mr Kuroda will not be gone long, and he would very much regret it if he were to miss you.’ ‘But I don’t wish to put you to any bother.’ ‘Not at all, sir. Please, please come in.’
