The greengrocer did as he was told, with a show of great humility, and obsequiously handed Mr. Tuckle the carving-knife; in doing which, he accidentally gaped.

“What do you mean by that, Sir?” said Mr. Tuckle, with great asperity.

“I beg your pardon, Sir,” replied the crestfallen greengrocer, “I didn’t mean to do it, Sir; I was up very late last night, Sir.”

“I tell you what my opinion of you is, Harris,” said Mr. Tuckle, with a most impressive air, “you’re a wulgar beast.”