"It is reversing the order of things," he muttered, "reversing the order of things. But no matter. Sufficient for the day—"
As they continued to converse, Everope's contempt for his companion, slid gradually into familiarity. At length the latter, after glancing round the room, exclaimed:—
"Egad! Everope, I guess you're not in arrears for rent?"
"Why so, sir?" asked the spendthrift, with a return of his distant manner.
"Why, there's nothing to levy."
Everope laughed, and dismal it was to hear.
"Clients are few," suggested Sinson, ignorantly.
No answer.
"Family unfriendly," continued the intruder.
"Family!" shouted Everope, springing to his feet with an oath, "what d'ye mean, sir?" He clenched his fist, but it fell to his side. "Ha!" said he, "I am feeble —