The old man took a step back, and hesitated.

“Truly, sir, I have company there.”

“Have you, by George!” said Fledgeby; “I suppose you happen to know whose premises these are?”

“Sir, they are yours, and I am your servant in them.”

“Oh! I thought you might have overlooked that,” retorted Fledgeby, with his eyes on Riah’s beard as he felt for his own; “having company on my premises, you know!”

“Come up and see the guests, sir. I hope for your admission that they can do no harm.”