Then the sanitary inspector who has to wink at the law so often, came in and threatened my friend with legal proceedings.

He pleaded that he could not get them out.

They pleaded that nobody would have them with so many children at a rental within their means, which is one of the commonest complaints of the poor, by-the-bye.

What was to be done?
The landlord was between two millstones.

Finally he applied to the magistrate, who sent up an officer to inquire into the case.