It was now used as a boarding, or rather lodging-house. The guests were not of a very high character, the landlady not being particular as long as her rent was paid regularly. Mr. Montgomery ascended the steps in a jaunty way, and, opening the door with a passkey, ascended the front staircase. He paused before a room on the third floor, and knocked in a peculiar manner.
The door was opened by a tall woman, in rather neglected attire.
“So you're back,” she said.
“Yes, my dear, home again. As the poet says, 'There is no place like home.'”
“I should hope there wasn't,” said Mrs. Montgomery, looking about her disdainfully. “A very delightful home it makes with such a charming prospect of the back yard. I've been moping here all day.”
“You've found something to console you, I see,” said her husband, glancing at the table, on which might be seen a bottle of brandy, half-emptied, and a glass.
“Yes,” said Mrs. Montgomery; “I felt so bad I had to send out for something. It took every cent I had. And, by the way, Mrs. Flagg sent in her bill, this morning, for the last two weeks' board; she said she must have it.”
“My dear,” said Mr. Montgomery, “she shall have it.”
“You don't mean to say you've got the money, Tony!” exclaimed his wife, in surprise.
“No, I haven't got the money; but I've got what's just as good.”