“I say, Mrs Nash,” said I, “my friend’s coming to lodge here, please.”

Mrs Nash eyed Jack suspiciously, and then said abruptly, “No room.”

“Oh, bother! Can’t he sleep with me, then?” I inquired.

“No,” replied she, “he can’t. It’s not allowed.”

“When will there be room?” Jack asked.

“Next week, may be.”

“Oh, how jolly!” I exclaimed. “Then you will come, Jack, won’t you?”

“How much is it?” inquired Jack of Mrs Nash.

“Three-and-six a week—in advance,” said Mrs Nash; “no tick.”

Jack pulled rather a long face.