"Yes—'pon my soul!" exclaimed Titmouse.
"Why, in that case, it is only due to myself to say I can be no party to it: I have had to bear enough already that was due to others; and since I have solemnly pledged my word of honor to Mr."——
"What the devil do you mean, Gammon? Cuss me, if I can make you out a bit!" interrupted Titmouse, snappishly.
"You misunderstand me, my dear Titmouse! Once for all, I say, if you want the money, you must immediately sue on these notes; and my opinion is, you'll succeed—only, I must not appear in it, you know! But if you do choose to employ some other solicitor—there's that Mr. Spitfire, for instance—to compel me to give up the notes."
"Oh Lord! Honor! No, no!—So bless me Heaven! I didn't mean anything of the kind," cried Titmouse, alarmedly, fearful of offending Gammon, who could scarcely conceal his impatience and disgust at the stupidity of Titmouse.
"I cannot make you understand me, Titmouse! What I mean is, it is my duty not to let my feelings interfere with your interests. I now, therefore, recommend you—since you have suggested the thing—immediately to put yourself into the hands—as far as this little business is concerned—of some other solicitor, say Mr. Spitfire, in Scorpion Court; and whatever he advises you to do—do without hesitation. You will probably tell him that, if he demands the two notes on your behalf, I may, for form's sake, resist: but I know I shall be ordered to give them up! Well—I can't help it!"
"Honor now, Gammon! May I do as I like?" inquired Titmouse, stupidly.
"Honor!"
"And you won't be angry? Not a bit! eh?"