So good an opinion had Mr.Books of himself when under these little delusions, occasioned accidentally, as he would say, that it became a serious question with him whether his proud position was due to Topman and Gusher or his own great merits.

In fine, it had more than once occurred to him that the firm was indebted to his personal popularity for its great reputation.
Mr.Gusher consulted Mr.Books, and entrusted him with the little woman's money.

Then he proceeded to Mr.Foblin's desk, that gentleman turning over the pages of his big ledger preparatory to making an entry.
"What name did you say?
I have the amount," enquired that gentleman, looking up earnestly over his spectacles.
"If you please, madam," said he, approaching the little woman with a bow, "you shall have no objection to give me your name.

It is necessary as we shall keep ze book so correct." The little woman hesitated for a moment, fingered the handle of her satchel nervously, then looked up inquiringly in Mr.Gusher's face.

Then touching him timidly on the right arm with the fore-finger of her left hand she whispered, "Nautical, nautical, my nautical name ?" Then her lips motioned and her finger pressed on Mr.Gusher's arm.