“Have you got your gloves on?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Then take the kiver off.”
“Yes, sir.”
The greengrocer did as he was told, with a show of great humility, and obsequiously handed Mr. Tuckle the carving knife; in doing which, he accidentally gaped.
“What do you mean by that, sir?” said Mr. Tuckle, with great asperity.
“I beg your pardon, sir,” replied the crestfallen greengrocer, “I din’t mean to do it, sir; I was up very late last night, sir.”
“I tell you what my opinion of you is, Harris,” said Mr. Tuckle with a most impressive air, “you’re a wulgar beast.”
“I hope, gentlemen,” said Harris, “that you won’t be severe with me, gentlemen. I’m very much obliged to you indeed, gentlemen, for your patronage, and also for your recommendations, gentlemen, whenever additional assistance in waiting is required. I hope, gentlemen, I give satisfaction.”
“No, you don’t, sir,” said Mr. Tuckle. “Very far from it, sir.”