I held out for some time for the addition of a footstone at least.
But he said, "O no--he couldn't afford it."' 'Ah, well--his family is growing up, poor fellow, and his expenses are getting serious.' 'Yes, exactly,' said Jones, as if the subject were none of his.

And again directing Barnet's attention to the wall-papers, the bustling architect left him to keep some other engagement.
'A common headstone,' murmured Barnet, left again to himself.

He mused a minute or two, and next began looking over and selecting from the patterns; but had not long been engaged in the work when he heard another footstep on the gravel without, and somebody enter the open porch.
Barnet went to the door--it was his manservant in search of him.
'I have been trying for some time to find you, sir,' he said.

'This letter has come by the post, and it is marked immediate.

And there's this one from Mr.Downe, who called just now wanting to see you.' He searched his pocket for the second.
Barnet took the first letter--it had a black border, and bore the London postmark.