“Is it?” said Mr. Boffin. “But it’s two to me, let me tell you. Allowing a fellow that’s found out, to discharge himself, is one thing; discharging him for insolence and presumption, and likewise for designs upon his master’s money, is another. One and one’s two; not one. (Old lady, don’t you cut in. You keep still.)”

“Have you said all you wish to say to me?” demanded the Secretary.

“I don’t know whether I have or not,” answered Mr. Boffin. “It depends.”

“Perhaps you will consider whether there are any other strong expressions that you would like to bestow upon me?”