“Your unfortunate suspicions, Mr. Boffin⁠—” began the Secretary.

“Precious unfortunate for you , I can tell you,” said Mr. Boffin.

“⁠—are not to be combated by anyone, and I address myself to no such hopeless task. But I will say a word upon the truth.”

“Yah! Much you care about the truth,” said Mr. Boffin, with a snap of his fingers.

“Noddy! My dear love!” expostulated his wife.