“Unfortunately, madam,” returns Twemlow, “the one money obligation to which I stand committed, the one debt of my life (but it is a just debt; pray observe that I don’t dispute it), has fallen into Mr. Riah’s hands.”

“ Mr. Twemlow,” says Mrs. Lammle, fixing his eyes with hers: which he would prevent her doing if he could, but he can’t; “it has fallen into Mr. Fledgeby’s hands. Mr. Riah is his mask. It has fallen into Mr. Fledgeby’s hands. Let me tell you that, for your guidance. The information may be of use to you, if only to prevent your credulity, in judging another man’s truthfulness by your own, from being imposed upon.”