At length the document was restored to its place; and Wegg, whose uncomfortable attitude had been that of a very persevering man unsuccessfully attempting to stand upon his head, took a seat to recover himself. Mr. Boffin, for his part, made no attempt to come down, but remained aloft disconsolate.

“Well, Boffin!” said Wegg, as soon as he was in a condition to speak. “Now, you know.”

“Yes, Wegg,” said Mr. Boffin, meekly. “Now, I know.”

“You have no doubts about it, Boffin.”

“No, Wegg. No, Wegg. None,” was the slow and sad reply.