"Do you want me, friend?"
"Yes, sir, if you please;" and the man took off his shabby hat, and bowed low.
"Well, speak out. No begging petition, I hope?"
"No, sir! Your nephews—"
The banker turned round, and in his turn eyed the newcomer. The linendraper started back.
"Nephews!" he repeated, with a bewildered look. "What does the man mean?
Wait a bit."
"Oh, I've done!" said the banker, smiling. "I am glad to find we agree so well upon this question: I knew we should. Our member will never suit us if he goes on in this way. Trade must take care of itself. Good day to You!"
"Nephews!" repeated Mr. Morton, rising, and beckoning to the man to follow him into the back parlour, where Mrs. Morton sat casting up the washing bills.
"Now," said the husband, closing the door, "what do you mean, my good fellow?"
"Sir, what I wish to ask you is-if you can tell me what has become of—of the young Beau—, that is, of your sister's sons. I understand there were two—and I am told that—that they are both dead. Is it so?"