There was ample time to make these observations before the door was opened by the poor old man himself.
'Ha!' said he, very slowly remembering Arthur, 'you were shut in last night ?' 'Yes, Mr Dorrit.

I hope to meet your niece here presently.' 'Oh!' said he, pondering.

'Out of my brother's way?
True.

Would you come up-stairs and wait for her ?' 'Thank you.' Turning himself as slowly as he turned in his mind whatever he heard or said, he led the way up the narrow stairs.

The house was very close, and had an unwholesome smell.