"But we have now good hopes, that the case will end in success."
"Then you have some information?"
"That is so; but the affair is most awfully expensive, and I am sent here to request one small advance for outlay, only fifty pounds."
"But you have already had a hundred!"
"That is correct, and placed to credit," returned the clerk imperturbably, now producing a book from a pocket in his Noah's Ark coat, "and when you settle, I will hand you receipt."
"Yes, I dare say you will! You are rather premature, my friend. So far, I've seen no results for my money."
"Very soon, you shall. You understand, that we have to pay our staff through the nose. You will be ready, when summoned, to start at once."
"Why, of course; that's what I'm here for," rejoined Mallender impatiently.
"You may go far, you may go near. The man we are following fluctuates; sometimes he is close at hand, and sometimes out of reach for years!"
"By Jove, this sounds promising!"