“ Mr. Rokesmith.”

“Oh!” said Mr. Boffin. “Oh indeed! Our and the Wilfers’ Mutual Friend, my dear. Yes. Ask him to come in.”

Mr. Rokesmith appeared.

“Sit down, sir,” said Mr. Boffin, shaking hands with him. “ Mrs. Boffin you’re already acquainted with. Well, sir, I am rather unprepared to see you, for, to tell you the truth, I’ve been so busy with one thing and another, that I’ve not had time to turn your offer over.”