He was not too careful.

More or less ashes accompanied the nutritious vegetables as the pot grew to be half full.

That was a thing to be corrected later, and at leisure.

When the last bean had been salvaged the flame of another match revealed an unsuspected item--a half-loaf of bread nestled in the ashes at the far corner of the fireplace.

It lacked freshness; was, in truth, withered and firm to the touch, but doubtless more wholesome than bread freshly baked.
He was again on his humble cot in the seclusion of the Crystal Palace Hotel.