Jobling looks hungry and also has the appearance of having run to seed in the market-gardens down by Deptford.
“I say! Just throw out half a crown if you have got one to spare. I want to get some dinner.”
“Will you come and dine with me?” says Mr. Guppy, throwing out the coin, which Mr. Jobling catches neatly.
“How long should I have to hold out?” says Jobling.
“Not half an hour. I am only waiting here till the enemy goes,” returns Mr. Guppy, butting inward with his head.
“What enemy?”
“A new one. Going to be articled. Will you wait?”
“Can you give a fellow anything to read in the meantime?” says Mr. Jobling.
Smallweed suggests the law list. But Mr. Jobling declares with much earnestness that he “can’t stand it.”
“You shall have the paper,” says Mr. Guppy. “He shall bring it down. But you had better not be seen about here. Sit on our staircase and read. It’s a quiet place.”