That he was a poor engineer was evidenced by his inability to get regular employment.

He did not have the energy and enterprise necessary to obtain or hold a steady position.
The pair had two daughters, and the four of them lived in a couple of holes, called "rooms" by courtesy, for which they paid seven shillings per week.

They possessed no stove, managing their cooking on a single gas-ring in the fireplace.

Not being persons of property, they were unable to obtain an unlimited supply of gas; but a clever machine had been installed for their benefit.

By dropping a penny in the slot, the gas was forthcoming, and when a penny's worth had forthcome the supply was automatically shut off.