As is usual in such combinations, the units forming the whole sought out their own congenial units and were thereafter amalgamated into groups, a classification to be found in all clubs the world over.

While Biffy and his chums could always be found together, there were other less-fortunate young fellows, not only without coupon shears, but sometimes without the means of paying their dues--who formed a little coterie of their own, and who valued and used the club for what it brought them, their election carrying with it a certain social recognition: it also widened one's circle of acquaintances and, perhaps, of clients.
The sound of loud talking now struck upon Jack's ear.

Something more important than the angle of a parasol or the wearing of out-of-date spats was engrossing the attention of a group of young men who had just entered.

Jack caught such expressions as--"Might as well have picked his pocket...." "He's flat broke, anyhow...." "Got to sell his house, I hear...." Then came a voice louder than the others.
"There's Breen talking to Minott and Biffy.

He's in the Street; he'll know....