I will then explain to you why I cannot do what you would have me.

Take your hand away, I say; do you not see that people are looking at us.' They were now standing at the upper end of the hall--close under the steps which lead to the Houses of Parliament; and, as Undy said, the place was too public for a display of physical resentment.

Alaric took his hand away.

'Well,' said he, 'now tell me what is to hinder you from letting me have the money you owe me ?' 'Only this,' said Undy, 'that every share I have in the concern is made over by way of security to old M'Cleury, and he now holds them.

Till I have redeemed them, I have no power of selling.' Alaric, when he heard these words, could hardly prevent himself from falling in the middle of the hall.