Under the circumstances he could not dream of staying more than two, or at most three, minutes.

He felt really ashamed of himself for such a flagrant breach of social custom; but if his friend would listen patiently for one minute--nay, for less.
"I know what you're driving at," broke in Gammon good-humouredly, as he sat in bed with his knees up.

"You've nowhere to sleep--ain't that it ?" "No, no; I assure you no!" exclaimed the other, with unfailing politeness.

"I have excellent lodgings in the parish of St.
Martin's-in-the-Fields; besides, you don't imagine I should disturb you after midnight for such a trivial cause! You have heard of the death of Lord Bolsover ?" "Never knew he was living," cried Gammon.
"Nonsense, you are an incorrigible joker.

The poor fellow died nearly a week ago.