And this appeared very queer to Mr Verloc in view of the fact, borne upon him suddenly, that he had to provide for this fellow too.

He had never given a moment's thought till then to that aspect of Stevie's existence.
Positively he did not know how to speak to the lad.

He watched him gesticulating and murmuring in the kitchen.

Stevie prowled round the table like an excited animal in a cage.

A tentative "Hadn't you better go to bed now ?" produced no effect whatever; and Mr Verloc, abandoning the stony contemplation of his brother-in-law's behaviour, crossed the parlour wearily, cash-box in hand.