"You did not come up from Southampton to-day, Tom? Blanche thought you did."
"And I am much obliged to them for allowing her to think it. I would have staked my last five-pound note, if you'll believe me, Charley, that old Carlen had not as much good feeling in him. I am vegetating in London; have been for some time, Blanche's letter was forwarded to me by a comrade who lets me use his address."
"And what are you doing in London?" asked Charles.
"Hiding my 'diminished head,' old fellow," answered Tom, with a laugh. No matter how serious the subject, he could not be serious over it.
"How much longer do you mean to stand here?" continued Charles—for the Captain (people still gave him his title) had not moved from the door.
"Till an empty cab goes by."
"We don't want a cab this fine night, Tom. Let us walk. Look how bright the moon is up there."
"Ay; my lady's especially bright tonight. Rather too much so for people who prefer the shade. How you stare, Charley! Fact is, I feel safer inside a cab just now than parading the open streets."
"Afraid of being taken for debt?" whispered Charles.
"Worse than that," said Tom laconically.