Mr. Boffin looked full at the man, and the man looked full at him.
“No,” said Mr. Boffin, after a glance at the pavement, as if it were made of faces and he were trying to match the man’s, “I don’t know you.”
“I am nobody,” said the stranger, “and not likely to be known; but Mr. Boffin’s wealth—”
“Oh! that’s got about already, has it?” muttered Mr. Boffin.
“—And his romantic manner of acquiring it, make him conspicuous. You were pointed out to me the other day.”
“Well,” said Mr. Boffin, “I should say I was a disappintment to you when I was pinted out, if your politeness would allow you to confess it, for I am well aware I am not much to look at. What might you want with me? Not in the law, are you?”
“No, sir.”
“No information to give, for a reward?”
“No, sir.”
There may have been a momentary mantling in the face of the man as he made the last answer, but it passed directly.
“If I don’t mistake, you have followed me from my lawyer’s and tried to fix my attention. Say out! Have you? Or haven’t you?” demanded Mr. Boffin, rather angry.
“Yes.”
“Why have you?”