Well, I can't help it.

I must chance it.' "He glances round at himself, and hesitates.

'I wouldn't mind if I didn't look so dirty and untidy,' he muses; 'people are so prone to think evil in this world.' "'Ah, well,' he adds, giving himself a shake, 'there's nothing else for it, I must put my trust in Providence, it's pulled me through before: here goes.' "He assumes an aspect of chastened sorrow, and trots along with a demure and saddened step.

It is evident he wishes to convey the idea that he has been out all night on work connected with the Vigilance Association, and is now returning home sick at heart because of the sights that he has seen.
"He squirms in, unnoticed, through a window, and has just time to give himself a hurried lick down before he hears the cook's step on the stairs.

When she enters the kitchen he is curled up on the hearthrug, fast asleep.