“As how, sir?”
“I believe you were over there on matters connected with Lord Cullamore's family—haw?”
“Sir,” replied Birney, “you are a perfect stranger to me—I haven't the honor of knowing you. If you are coming to me on anything connected with my professional services, I will thank you to state it.”
“Haw!—My name is Norton, a friend of Lord Dunroe's.”
“Well, Mr. Norton, if you will have the goodness to mention the business which causes me the honor of your visit, I will thank you; but I beg to assure you, that I am not a man to be pumped either by Lord Dunroe or any of his friends. You compel me to speak very plainly, sir.”
“Haw! Very good—very good indeed! but the truth his, I've given Dunroe hup.”
“Well, sir, and how is that my affair? What interest can I feel in your quarrels? Personally I know very little of Lord Dunroe, and of you, sir, nothing.”
“Haw! but everything 'as a beginning, Mr. Birney.”
“At this rate of going, I fear we shall be a long time ending, Mr. Norton.”
“Well,” replied Norton, “I believe you are right; the sooner we understand each other, the better.”