“You wished to see me,” observed I.
“Well, yes, I do,” said the tailor. “The fact is, Mr Batchelor, you aren’t treating me well. Those clothes were sold you for cash, sir—cash down!”
“Yes, I’m afraid I have been rather slow in paying, Mr Shoddy,” said I.
“Quite so, sir! The question is, have you the amount with you now—three pounds plus six shillings for interest to date?”
“I certainly have not the money with me,” said I.
“Ah! Then you are prepared to give me security, of course? Now what do you say to my drawing on Messrs Merrett, Barnacle, and Company, at one month, for the amount? I should be satisfied with their bill.”
I nearly jumped off my seat with horror.
“Merrett, Barnacle, and Company pay my tailor’s bill! Oh, no! quite out of the question!” I exclaimed.
“Ah, that’s a pity! I should have liked their bill, and you could pay them by instalments.”
“I wouldn’t on any account have them spoken to on the subject,” said I.