For the second time Mr. Effingham travelled down to Redmoor, and obtained an interview with Sir Charles Mitford. He found that gentleman very stern and haughty on this occasion; so Mr. Effingham comported himself with great humility.
"Now, sir," said Sir Charles, "you've broken your word for the second time. What do you want now?"
"I'm very sorry, Sir Charles--no intention of givin' offence, Sir Charles; but--"
"You've not got that--that horrible bill?"
"N-no, Sir Charles, I haven't; but--"
"Then what brings you here, sir? more extortion?--a further attempt to obtain money under false pretences?"
"No, no; don't say that, Sir Charles. I'll tell you right off. I may as well make a clean breast of it. I can't find that document anywhere. I don't know where it is; and I'm sick of cadgin' about and spongin' on you. You know when I first saw you up in town I told you I'd come from America. I was a fool to leave it. I did very well there; and I want to go back."
"Well, sir?"
"Well, just as a last chance, do that for me. I've been true to you; all that business of the young woman I managed first-rate--"
"I paid you for it."