“Why, as to Steward, you see,” returned Mr. Boffin, with his hand still to his chin, “the odds are that Mrs. Boffin and me may never go upon the water. Being both bad sailors, we should want a Steward if we did; but there’s generally one provided.”

Mr. Rokesmith again explained; defining the duties he sought to undertake, as those of general superintendent, or manager, or overlooker, or man of business.

“Now, for instance⁠—come!” said Mr. Boffin, in his pouncing way. “If you entered my employment, what would you do?”