Reaching the thoroughfare of Chapel Street, McNab stationed himself at the corner while Waters proceeded to a point about half-way down the block.
Assuming a lounging position against a lamp-post, McNab waited until chance delivered up to him a superhumanly dignified citizen in top hat and boutonnière, moving through the crowd with an air of solid importance.
Darting out, he approached with the sweep of an eagle, saying in a hoarse whisper:
"Old clothes, any old clothes, sir?"
His victim, frowning, accelerated his pace.
"Buy your old clothes, sir, buy 'em now."
Several onlookers stopped and looked. The gentleman, who had not turned to see who was addressing him, said hurriedly in an undertone:
"No, no, nothing to-day."
"Buy 'em to-morrow—pay good price," said McNab peevishly.