‘I think we’ll go in here, then,’ she decided, to her guest’s obvious satisfaction.
A shopman with a much stained apron gazed at the party in some astonishment as they entered, but he seemed to think Emmeline a trustworthy person, for he made no demur when she ordered a plate of fried fish and potatoes.
‘What’s your name, little boy?’ asked Emmeline, when the shopman had disappeared into the back regions, and they were seated waiting at a grimy table covered with American leather in imitation of marble.
‘Diamond Jub’lee Jones,’ replied the boy glibly.
‘What an extraordinary name!’ exclaimed Emmeline, and the twins began to giggle.
‘I were born on Diamond Jub’lee day,’ he explained, with evident pride.
‘Well, Diamond Jubilee, I’m sure with such a splendid birthday you ought to be a very good, honest boy,’ said Emmeline, by way of improving the occasion. ‘What would Queen Victoria have said if anyone had told her that a boy born on her Diamond Jubilee would ever take to picking people’s pockets? Why, she would have been awfully upset.’
Diamond Jubilee looked round the shop furtively, as though to assure himself that there was nobody within hearing. ‘That ain’t to please meself I picks pockets,’ he mumbled; ‘that’s Mother Grimes. She beats us something awful if we don’t bring nothing home.’
‘You don’t mean to say she is bringing you up as a thief!’ exclaimed Emmeline, in a horrified voice.