“‘Birmingham is nice place.’
“‘D—— Brummagem,’ muttered Donnymore.
“‘Ah; you not like to leave your friends!’
“‘No, I don’t.’
“‘That is good, shows you have good heart. It is but natural, you are so well known, and have so many friends.’
“He laid a stress upon the last word, and Donnymore looking steadily at Pegon, said angrily—
“‘Look here, Pegon—what the deuce are you driving at?’
“‘Me! noting, my friend—it is only anxiety for the state of your health.’
“‘My health be blowed! What’s your little game?’
“‘How you talk! as if I ever had little games; but he is so funny, that Donnymore.’