“Well,” said Mr. Boffin, “I should say I was a disappintment to you when I was pinted out, if your politeness would allow you to confess it, for I am well aware I am not much to look at. What might you want with me? Not in the law, are you?”

“No, sir.”

“No information to give, for a reward?”

“No, sir.”

There may have been a momentary mantling in the face of the man as he made the last answer, but it passed directly.

“If I don’t mistake, you have followed me from my lawyer’s and tried to fix my attention. Say out! Have you? Or haven’t you?” demanded Mr. Boffin, rather angry.