Gradually they came down in style, but not in number, and, when Mr.Sponge visited Mr.
Jawleyford, he had a sort of out-of-door man-of-all-work who metamorphosed himself into a second footman at short notice.
'My dear Mr.Sponge!--I am delighted to see you!' exclaimed Mr.Jawleyford, rising from his easy-chair, and throwing his Disraeli's _Bentinck_ aside, as Mr.Spigot, the butler, in a deep, sonorous voice, announced our worthy friend.

'This is, indeed, most truly kind of you,' continued Jawleyford, advancing to meet him; and getting our friend by both hands, he began working his arms up and down like the under man in a saw-pit.

'This is, indeed, most truly kind,' he repeated; 'I assure you I shall never forget it.

It's just what I like--it's just what Mrs.Jawleyford likes--it's just what we _all_ like--coming without fuss or ceremony.

Spigot!' he added, hailing old Pomposo as the latter was slowly withdrawing, thinking what a humbug his master was--'Spigot!' he repeated in a louder voice; 'let the ladies know Mr.Sponge is here.