This hour had been fixed by Temple in case he was not sent for earlier, and as no messenger had so far reached the bill collector he was naturally in doubt as to the nature of his reception.

He had the same hat in his hand and the same handkerchief--a weekly, or probably a monthly comfort--its dingy red color defrauding the laundry.
"I have waited, sir," Gadgem began in an unctuous tone, his eyes on the dog, who had now resumed his place on the hearth rug--"waited IMpatiently, relying upon the word and honor of--" "There--that will do, Gadgem," laughed St.George good-naturedly.
Somehow he seemed more than usually happy this morning--bubbling over, indeed, ever since Todd had brought him a message from the young lawyer in the basement but half an hour before.

"Keep that sort of talk for those who like it.

No, Todd, you needn't bring Mr.Gadgem a chair, for he won't be here long enough to enjoy it.

Now listen," and he took the memorandum from his pocket.