The old man was sitting ruefully on the opposite side of the table, with his spectacles over his eyes, for a wonder, instead of on his forehead.

'How are you now ?' Solomon shook his head, and waved one hand towards the broker, as introducing him.
'Is there anything the matter ?' asked Walter, with a catching in his breath.
'No, no.

There's nothing the matter, said Mr Brogley.

'Don't let it put you out of the way.' Walter looked from the broker to his Uncle in mute amazement.

'The fact is,' said Mr Brogley, 'there's a little payment on a bond debt--three hundred and seventy odd, overdue: and I'm in possession.' 'In possession!' cried Walter, looking round at the shop.
'Ah!' said Mr Brogley, in confidential assent, and nodding his head as if he would urge the advisability of their all being comfortable together.