“And on my honour I never will!” I said excitedly.
“Right, then, so far,” said Lomax. “Now about those gloves. If I recollect right, they’re eight-and-six a pair, and two pairs are seventeen shillings.”
“And the carriage,” said Mercer.
“Stop a bit. I think, being an old soldier, and teaching, the makers’ll take something off for me. I know they’ll send ’em down carriage paid, and Jem Roff’ll get ’em for me from the cross when the waggon goes in. Got your money?”
“I’ve got half a sovereign,” said Mercer.
“I’ve got seven shillings,” I said.
“Hand over then,” said the sergeant, and we lightened our purses tremendously.
“That’s right,” said Lomax. “Now about the pay for the lessons. I want that in advance.”
“Oh!” we both ejaculated in dismay.
“We can’t pay now, Lom,” said Mercer, “but we will.”