He hesitated. "Lady told me not to tell."
I put my hand in my pocket and pulled out five shillings. "Look here, my son," I said, "I'll give you that if you'll answer my question."
He shook his head sturdily. "I promised the lady, guv'nor."
I put back the money, feeling rather ashamed. "Tommy," I said, "you're a good boy. How did you know I was Mr. Northcote?"
"Lady described yer, guv'nor. Said yer was a big gent with a brown face."
"Did she!" said I, laughing. Then I paused a moment, thinking rapidly. "Will you take a note back for me?" I asked. "The lady didn't say you weren't to do that, did she?"
He shook his head.
"Very well," I said; "you do it, and I'll give you ten shillings."
The magnitude of the sum fairly staggered him.
"'Arf a quid!" he gasped.