“Your highly intelligent and respect solicitor is of opinion that your affairs are in a bad way, Eugene.”

“Though whether,” said Eugene thoughtfully, “that can be intelligently said, now, of the affairs of a client who has nothing to lose and who cannot possibly be made to pay, may be open to question.”

“You have fallen into the hands of the Jews, Eugene.”

“My dear boy,” returned the debtor, very composedly taking up his glass, “having previously fallen into the hands of some of the Christians, I can bear it with philosophy.”

“I have had an interview today, Eugene, with a Jew, who seems determined to press us hard. Quite a Shylock, and quite a Patriarch. A picturesque grey-headed and grey-bearded old Jew, in a shovel-hat and gaberdine.”

“Not,” said Eugene, pausing in setting down his glass, “surely not my worthy friend Mr. Aaron?”