Mrs Nutts. It just is; and I was thinkin’ of it only yesterday, just as the tax-gatherer called for the rates. And so—although I’d the money ready in a cup in the cupboard—so being in the dumps, not knowing how long the world would last, I just thought it safest to tell the man to call again.

Nutts. When you die, my love, what a deal of prudence you’ll take out of the world with you!

Mrs Nutts. More than enough, Mr Nutts, to keep twenty men comfortable in it.

Chapter XIII.

Mrs Nutts. I don’t wonder we’re poor, Mr Nutts; sitting there reading the news when you should be minding your bus’ness and your family.

Nutts. Bless the woman!

Mrs Nutts. Yes; bless the man!—but that does no good, one way or the other.

Nutts. Can’t I have a bit of quiet news to myself afore the customers come in?