“YOU!” cried the Count, more and more surprised. “And pray who the devil ARE you?”
“My name's Billings.”
“Billings?” said the Count.
“I come out of Warwickshire,” said Mr. Billings.
“Indeed!”
“I was born at Birmingham town.”
“Were you, really!”
“My mother's name was Hayes,” continued Billings, in a solemn voice. “I was put out to a nurse along with John Billings, a blacksmith; and my father run away. NOW do you know who I am?”
“Why, upon honour, now,” said the Count, who was amused,—“upon honour, Mr. Billings, I have not that advantage.”
“Well, then, my Lord, YOU'RE MY FATHER!”