"There is n't so much money in all the world!" whispered Amelia despairingly.
"I've got six-and-threepence," said Percy, diving into his pockets.
A thought occurred to Mrs. Welwyn.
"Father," she enquired of the motionless figure on the sofa, "did n't you tell me that Gandy and Cox's bill was only a matter of seven pounds?"
"It was, it was," said Mr. Welwyn, "but--I ordered a little more, to keep them quiet."
Mrs. Welwyn, admirable woman, wasted no time in useless reproaches. Instead, she turned once more upon the broker's man.
"Now, look here," she said; "I want to ask a favour of you. We're expecting company here this afternoon. Will you go away, and come back in the evening?"
"And find the front door bolted!" replied the broker's man affably. "No, I don't think! I prefer to remain. I've been in this profession for some time now--ever since I abandoned the profession, in fact--and I know a thing or two. I'm sorry," he added, "to disoblige a lady, and I hope you won't take offence where none was intended. Try to look on the bright side of things. I might 'ave been a auction."
Percy broke in upon these comfortable words.
"Look here," he said; "will you go away for a quid?"