“Delighted,” said Eugene⁠—though he didn’t look so⁠—“to know Mr. Boffin.”

“Thankee, sir, thankee,” returned that gentleman. “And how do you like the law?”

“A⁠—not particularly,” returned Eugene.

“Too dry for you, eh? Well, I suppose it wants some years of sticking to, before you master it. But there’s nothing like work. Look at the bees.”

“I beg your pardon,” returned Eugene, with a reluctant smile, “but will you excuse my mentioning that I always protest against being referred to the bees?”

“Do you!” said Mr. Boffin.