"Yes—we're going up above bridge a short way," answered the Buffer: "the tide is just turning in our favour now, and we haven't a moment to spare."
"And the appointment with me?"
"Oh! that must stand over for a day or two. How long do you mean to remain here?"
"Till I get a couple of good hands to help me in the matter I alluded to the night before last," answered Benstead.
"Well, I don't like to disappoint a good feller—and that you seem to be," said the Buffer, "but I really can't say whether I shall be able to do any thing with you, or not. I've something else on hand now—and I think I shall leave the river altogether."
"You speak openly at all events," said Benstead. "It's very annoying, though; for I relied upon you. Can't your pal—the man that you spoke of, you know—have a hand in this matter with me?"
"No," answered the Buffer shortly. "But I'll tell you who'll put you up to getting the assistance you want:—and that's Mossop's foreman. He's a cautious man, and won't meet you half way in your conversation; but you can make a confidant of him, and if he can't help you, he's sure not to sell you. So now good bye, old feller; and good luck to you."
With these words the Buffer loosened the rope that held the Fairy alongside the barge next to it; and then by means of a boat-hook he pushed the lighter off.
"Good bye," exclaimed Benstead; and he hastened back to the Blossom.
"Now what must be done?" asked Morcar, when these particulars were communicated to him and Richard.