You know that well enough, so don't talk nonsense.' Mr Brass received this observation with increased meekness, merely remarking, under his breath, that he didn't like that kind of joking, and that Miss Sally would be 'a much better fellow' if she forbore to aggravate him.

To this compliment Miss Sally replied, that she had a relish for the amusement, and had no intention to forego its gratification.

Mr Brass not caring, as it seemed, to pursue the subject any further, they both plied their pens at a great pace, and there the discussion ended.
While they were thus employed, the window was suddenly darkened, as by some person standing close against it.

As Mr Brass and Miss Sally looked up to ascertain the cause, the top sash was nimbly lowered from without, and Quilp thrust in his head.
'Hallo!' he said, standing on tip-toe on the window-sill, and looking down into the room.

'Is there anybody at home?
Is there any of the Devil's ware here?
Is Brass at a premium, eh ?' 'Ha, ha, ha!' laughed the lawyer in an affected ecstasy.