And by no means, Tom--pray bear this in mind, for I am very serious--by no means lend him money any more.' 'Aye, aye!' said Tom, with his eyes wide open.
'He is very far from being a reputable acquaintance,' returned young Westlock; 'and the more you let him know you think so, the better for you, Tom.' 'I say, John,' quoth Mr Pinch, as his countenance fell, and he shook his head in a dejected manner.

'I hope you are not getting into bad company.' 'No, no,' he replied laughing.

'Don't be uneasy on that score.' 'Oh, but I AM uneasy,' said Tom Pinch; 'I can't help it, when I hear you talking in that way.

If Mr Tigg is what you describe him to be, you have no business to know him, John.

You may laugh, but I don't consider it by any means a laughing matter, I assure you.' 'No, no,' returned his friend, composing his features.