The Open Window by Saki, read by Mike Bennett.

My aunt will be down presently, Mr Nuttle, said a very self-possessed young lady of 15.

In the meantime, you must try and put up with me.

Frampton Nuttle endeavoured to say the correct something which should duly flatter the

niece of the moment without unduly discounting the aunt that was to come.

Privately, he doubted more than ever whether these formal visits on a succession of total strangers

would do much towards helping the nerve cure which he was supposed to be undergoing.

I know how it will be, his sister had said when he was preparing to migrate to this rural retreat,

you will bury yourself down there and not speak to a living soul,

and your nerves will be worse than ever from moping.

I shall just give you some letters of introduction to all the people I know there.

Some of them, as far as I can remember, were quite nice.

Frampton wondered whether Mrs. Sappleton, the lady to whom he was presenting one of the letters of introduction, came into the nice division.

Do you know many of the people around here?

Asked the niece when she judged that they had had sufficient silent communion

Hardly soul, said Frampton.

My sister was staying here at the rectory, you know, some four years ago, and she gave me letters of introduction to some of the people here.

He made the last statement in a tone of distinct regret.

Then you know practically nothing about my aunt.

Pursued the self-possessed young lady.

Only her name and address. the self-possessed young lady.

Only her name and address, admitted the caller.

...