“Ah, so he has.”
The speaker beckoned to Alf, who made his usual obeisance, for privation had taught him to be patient and polite to all.
He had been taught by experience that ladies seldom bought eggs or nests—not unless they had children with them, which neither of the two in question seemed to have.
Still he was not disposed to throw a chance away—perhaps these might be an exception to the rule—there was no telling.
He drew nearer, and stood close by them.
“How wet and cold you must feel, my poor lad!” Said Anna Maria.
“Yes, marm; but I’m used to be out in all sorts of weathers.”
“You are from the country, I suppose,” said the elder of the two.
“Yes marm, country bred. I was a farmer’s boy till a couple of months ago, when a bird-catcher brought me up to London to seek my fortune, though I can’t see as how I’ve bettered myself as yet.”
“No, I should assume not. Dear me, and is this your trade?” inquired the elder lady.