“So you were listening, ma'am, were you?” demanded Mrs. Montgomery, scornfully.
“Yes, I was,” said the landlady, rather red in the face.
“You were in good business.”
“It's a better business than stealing diamond rings,” retorted the landlady, recovering herself. “I've long suspected there was something wrong about you and your husband, ma'am, and now I know it. I don't want no thieves nor jail birds in my house, and the sooner you pay your bill and leave, the better I'll like it.”
“I'll leave as soon as you like, but I can't pay your bill.”
“I dare say,” retorted the landlady. “You're a nice character to cheat an honest woman out of four weeks' board.”
“Well, Paul, what news?” asked Barry.
“I am ready to buy your stand,” said Paul.
“Can you pay me all the money down?”
“On the spot.”