We have been hard at work in the office all day." "I commend your diligence," said he, affecting a patronizing air; "I am sorry to take you from such pleasant company, but business, you know, cannot be neglected.

This bundle of papers," (and he took a packet from his wallet and placed in my hand), "must be transcribed to-night.

You need not go to the office.

Step into the study, you will find all that you require there." This was but a stratagem to get rid of my unwelcome presence.

I bowed to Sir Alexander, and reluctantly withdrew.
It so happened, that Mr.Moncton's study opened into the dining-room, and without meaning to do so, I left the door but partially closed.
Sitting down to the table, I trimmed the large shaded lamp that always burnt there, and began mechanically to transcribe the uninteresting papers.