They can't last long; but if I know of their going in good time, I am safe, and a fair profit too.

I must keep them closely in view; that's all.' So, nodding his head very complacently, Ralph was leaving the spot, when his quick ear caught the sound of a confused noise and hubbub of voices, mingled with a great running up and down stairs, in the very house which had been the subject of his scrutiny; and while he was hesitating whether to knock at the door or listen at the keyhole a little longer, a female servant of Madame Mantalini's (whom he had often seen) opened it abruptly and bounced out, with her blue cap-ribbons streaming in the air.
'Hallo here.

Stop!' cried Ralph.

'What's the matter?
Here am I.Didn't you hear me knock ?' 'Oh! Mr Nickleby, sir,' said the girl.

'Go up, for the love of Gracious.
Master's been and done it again.' 'Done what ?' said Ralph, tartly; 'what d'ye mean ?' 'I knew he would if he was drove to it,' cried the girl.