“I should like to see you try, Mr. HOOKER Walker,” replies the undaunted shopman; on which the Captain, looking several tremendous canings at him, walked into the back room or “studio.”
“How are you, Tiny my buck?” says the Captain. “Much doing?”
“Not a soul in town. I 'aven't touched the hirons all day,” replied Mr. Eglantine, in rather a desponding way.
“Well, just get them ready now, and give my whiskers a turn. I'm going to dine with Billingsgate and some out-and-out fellows at the 'Regent,' and so, my lad, just do your best.”
“I can't,” says Mr. Eglantine. “I expect ladies, Captain, every minute.”
“Very good; I don't want to trouble such a great man, I'm sure. Good-bye, and let me hear from you THIS DAY WEEK, Mr. Eglantine.” “This day week” meant that at seven days from that time a certain bill accepted by Mr. Eglantine would be due, and presented for payment.
“Don't be in such a hurry, Captain—do sit down. I'll curl you in one minute. And, I say, won't the party renew?”
“Impossible—it's the third renewal.”
“But I'll make the thing handsome to you;—indeed I will.”
“How much?”