"Very unfortunate indeed," growled a creditor.
"I would much rather have heard that there was a dividend, than that the accounts are so very satisfactory," murmured another.
"Mr. Tomlinson's creditors cannot complain of him, your Honour," said Mr. Greenwood to the Commissioner: "on the contrary, they have every reason to be perfectly satisfied with him. He has given up every thing—"
"Why, there was nothing left to give up!" ejaculated Mr. Vokes.
"Nothing left to give up!" cried Mr. Greenwood, casting a stern glance upon the unfortunate creditor; "permit me, sir, as the trade-assignee duly chosen at the last meeting—permit me, sir, to inform you that there were the desks, counters, stools, and various fixtures of the bank—all of which Mr. Tomlinson surrendered in the most honourable and straightforward manner, and which have realized a hundred and eighty-one pounds, seventeen shillings, and sixpence, for the benefit of the estate."
"Well—and what has become of that sum?" demanded Mr. Vokes.
"Consumed by the expenses of the fiat," answered Mr. Greenwood coolly. "But, as I was observing, your Honour, when I was interrupted—interrupted in a most indecent manner—the position of Mr. Tomlinson is a most honourable one—"
"Perhaps it is even enviable," said the consumptive creditor, drily.
"And I for one," added Mr. Greenwood, "shall certainly sign his certificate."
"Have no tidings been heard of the cashier who absconded?" inquired the Commissioner.