Mr. Smith met the pleasantry coldly; the ailment referred to was one of some standing and had been a continual source of expense in the way of balsams and other remedies.
“He's worried about 'is money,” he said, referring to Mr. Swann.
“Ah, we sha'n't 'ave that worry,” said Mr. Kybird.
“Nobody to leave it to,” continued Mr. Smith. “Seems a bit 'ard, don't it?”
“P'r'aps if 'e 'ad 'ad somebody to leave it to 'e wouldn't 'ave 'ad so much to leave,” observed Mr. Kybird, sagely; “it's a rum world.”
He shook his head over it and went on with the uncongenial task of marking down wares which had suffered by being exposed outside too long. Mr. Smith, who always took an interest in the welfare of his friends, made suggestions.
“I shouldn't put a ticket marked 'Look at this!' on that coat,” he said, severely. “It oughtn't to be looked at.”
“It's the best out o' three all 'anging together,” said Mr. Kybird, evenly.
“And look 'ere,” said Mr. Smith. “Look what an out-o'-the-way place you've put this ticket. Why not put it higher up on the coat?”
“Becos the moth-hole ain't there,” said Mr. Kybird.