“That was our light porter at the Bank,” said Tom, “who brought you the message tonight. I call him our light porter, because I belong to the Bank too.”

Stephen thought, “What a hurry he is in!” He spoke so confusedly.

“Well!” said Tom. “Now look here! When are you off?”

“T’ day’s Monday,” replied Stephen, considering. “Why, sir, Friday or Saturday, nigh ’bout.”

“Friday or Saturday,” said Tom. “Now look here! I am not sure that I can do you the good turn I want to do you⁠—that’s my sister, you know, in your room⁠—but I may be able to, and if I should not be able to, there’s no harm done. So I tell you what. You’ll know our light porter again?”

“Yes, sure,” said Stephen.