“Tell me what the widow said.”

“Oh, it was all good humouredly—a bit of her fun. You know what she is—wouldn’t hurt the feelings of a fly.”

“Yes, yes, I know; but she has been laughing at me. She has—”

“Nonsense—nonsense! Don’t make your coat rough, old man. She only said it was a pity.”

“What was a pity?”

“That dear old Hilt should be ridden with his curb chain so tight—by George! I didn’t know how hungry I was.”

“Yes,” said Sir Hilton, sadly; “the curb is a bit too tight sometimes, Jack; but someone means well, and she has a right to be a bit firm. I always was a fool over money matters.”

“Nonsense, old fellow! You were a prince, only you were unlucky, and were obliged to make a clear up; but you’re all right again now.”Read More