"So much for dear relations," said Quilp, with a sour look. He put his hand into his breast, and pulled out a bag. "Here, I brought it myself, as, being in gold, it was too large and heavy for Nell to carry. I would I knew in what good investment all these supplies are sunk. But you are a deep man, and keep your secret close."
"My secret!" said the old man, with a haggard look. "Yes, you're right--I keep it close--very close."
He said no more, but, taking the money, locked it in an iron safe.
That night, as on many a night previous, Nell's grandfather went out, leaving the child in the strange house alone, to return in the early morning.
Quilp, to whom the old man had again applied for money, learnt of these nocturnal expeditions, and sent no answer, but came in person to the old curiosity shop.
The old man was feverish and excited as he impatiently addressed the dwarf.
"Have you brought me any money?"
"No," returned Quilp.
"Then," said the old man, clenching his hands, "the child and I are lost. No recompense for the time and money lost!"
"Neighbour," said Quilp, "you have no secret from me now. I know that all those sums of money you have had from me have found their way to the gamingtable."