“I don’t know why I don’t,” retorted Mr. Wegg, approaching frenzy, “but I don’t at all.”

“Now, I’ll tell you something that’ll make you sorry for that,” said the stranger, smiling. “My name’s Boffin.”

“I can’t help it!” returned Mr. Wegg. Implying in his manner the offensive addition, “and if I could, I wouldn’t.”

“But there’s another chance for you,” said Mr. Boffin, smiling still, “Do you like the name of Nicodemus? Think it over. Nick, or Noddy.”