“Come in!” said Fledgeby. “This gentleman is only Pubsey and Co. of Saint Mary Axe, that I am trying to make terms for an unfortunate friend with in a matter of some dishonoured bills. But really Pubsey and Co. are so strict with their debtors, and so hard to move, that I seem to be wasting my time. Can’t I make any terms with you on my friend’s part, Mr. Riah?”

“I am but the representative of another, sir,” returned the Jew in a low voice. “I do as I am bidden by my principal. It is not my capital that is invested in the business. It is not my profit that arises therefrom.”

“Ha ha!” laughed Fledgeby. “Lammle?”

“Ha ha!” laughed Lammle. “Yes. Of course. We know.”