“Yes, Wegg,” he answered, coming out of a fit of abstraction, with a sigh.

“I haven’t mentioned one thing, because it’s a detail that comes of course. You must be followed up, you know. You must be kept under inspection.”

“I don’t quite understand,” said Mr. Boffin.

“Don’t you?” sneered Wegg. “Where’s your wits, Boffin? Till the Mounds is down and this business completed, you’re accountable for all the property, recollect. Consider yourself accountable to me. Mr. Venus here being too milk and watery with you, I am the boy for you.”

“I’ve been a-thinking,” said Mr. Boffin, in a tone of despondency, “that I must keep the knowledge from my old lady.”