“Hullo! So soon!” said the man, showing his teeth, which matched his skin.
“Well, didn’t I tell you so?” said Roach, importantly.
“Yes, but I don’t quite believe everything my clients say.”
“No, and you were precious uppish and hold-offish the other day,” said Roach, shortly.
“Obliged to be careful, Mr Smith, in my profession,” said the pawnbroker, with a peculiar smile. “There’s a law against receiving stolen goods, and one don’t want to get into trouble.”
“Well, you needn’t begin to suspect everybody who wants money, if there is. Do you suppose gentry don’t run short of money sometimes?”
“Oh no. I know they do, Mr Smith. I could show you some jewellery that would open your eyes.”
“And I dessay I could show you something that would open yours. May have to bring it to you some day. Who knows?”
“Glad to do business on the square any time, Mr Smith,” said the pawnbroker.
“Of course you are; so’s lots more. People thinks there’s no card-playing going on now, and gents and ladies running short.”