Dear Mr. Fledgeby did sit down, and satisfied himself (or, judging from the expression of his countenance, dis satisfied himself) that nothing new had occurred in the way of whisker-sprout since he came round the corner from the Albany.

“Dear Mr. Fledgeby, it was needless to mention to you that my poor dear Alfred is much worried about his affairs at present, for he has told me what a comfort you are to him in his temporary difficulties, and what a great service you have rendered him.”

“Oh!” said Mr. Fledgeby.

“Yes,” said Mrs. Lammle.