I must bear the loss.' Jasper turns round from the fire, fills a large goblet glass for Neville, fills a large goblet glass for Edwin, and hands each his own; then fills for himself, saying: 'Come, Mr.Neville, we are to drink to my nephew, Ned.

As it is his foot that is in the stirrup--metaphorically--our stirrup-cup is to be devoted to him.

Ned, my dearest fellow, my love!' Jasper sets the example of nearly emptying his glass, and Neville follows it.

Edwin Drood says, 'Thank you both very much,' and follows the double example.
'Look at him,' cries Jasper, stretching out his hand admiringly and tenderly, though rallyingly too.

'See where he lounges so easily, Mr.
Neville! The world is all before him where to choose.