He did know Dr.
Richards by sight, and was rather glad than otherwise when the elegant dandy, taking a seat upon the gnarled roots of the tree under which he was sitting, made some trivial remark about the weather, which was very propitious for the crowd who were sure to attend Mrs.Johnson's funeral.
Yes, Mr.Liston presumed there would be a crowd.

It was very natural there should be, particularly as the deceased was greatly beloved and was also reputed wealthy, "It beats all what a difference it makes, even after death, whether one is supposed to be rich or poor," and the codger worked away industriously at the pine stick he was whittling.
"But in this case the supposition of riches must be correct, though I know people are oftener overvalued than otherwise," and with his gold-headed cane the doctor thrust at a dandelion growing near.
"Nothing truer than that," returned the whittler, brushing the litter from his lap.

"Now I've no doubt that prig of a doctor, who they say is shining up to Alice, will be disappointed when he finds just how much she's worth.

Let me see.

What is his name?
Lives up there," and with his jackknife Mr.Liston pointed toward Terrace Hill.
"The Richards family live there, sir.