Having thus elongated and emphasized the word surprise, Mr. Wegg shook his friend and brother by both hands, and then clapped him on both knees, like an affectionate patron who entreated him not to mention so small a service as that which it had been his happy privilege to render.

“Your speaking countenance,” said Wegg, “being answered to its satisfaction, only asks then, ‘What have you found?’ Why, I hear it say the words!”

“Well?” retorted Venus snappishly, after waiting in vain. “If you hear it say the words, why don’t you answer it?”

“Hear me out!” said Wegg. “I’m a-going to. Hear me out! Man and brother, partner in feelings equally with undertakings and actions, I have found a cashbox.”

“Where?”