“That’s apology for both of us: for Mr. Boffin, and for me as well,” said the smiling Mrs. Boffin. “But Lor! we can talk it over now; can’t us?”

Mr. Rokesmith bowed, thanked her, and said he hoped so.

“Let me see then,” resumed Mr. Boffin, with his hand to his chin. “It was Secretary that you named; wasn’t it?”

“I said Secretary,” assented Mr. Rokesmith.