Got 'em all down?
Go on then, one barge, fresh un this is: you didn't put down the other." I hastened to rectify my error, and then we went steadily on with the task, the women being remarkably silent, as if it took all their energy to keep their fingers going so fast, till all at once Old Brownsmith appeared at the door and beckoned me to him.
"Tea's ready, my lad," he said; "let's have it and get out again, for there's a lot to do this evening." I followed him into a snug old-fashioned room that seemed as if it had been furnished by a cook with genteel ideas, or else by a lady who was fond of a good kitchen, for this room was neither one nor the other; it had old-fashioned dining-room chairs and a carpet, but the floor was brick, and the fireplace had an oven and boiler.

Then there was a dresser on one side, but it was mahogany, and in place of ordinary plates and dishes, and jugs swinging from hooks, this dresser was ornamented with old china and three big punch-bowls were turned up on the broad part upside down.
There was a comfortable meal spread, with a fresh loaf and butter, and a nice large piece of ham.

There was fruit, too, on the table, and a crisp lettuce, all in my honour as I afterwards found, for my employer or guardian, or whatever I am to style him, rarely touched any of the produce of his own grounds excepting potatoes, and these he absolutely loved, a cold potato for breakfast or tea being with him a thorough relish.
"Make yourself at home, Grant, my boy," he said kindly.

"I want you to settle down quickly.

We shall have to work hard, but you'll enjoy your meals and sleep all the better." I thanked him, and tried to do as he suggested, and to eat as if I enjoyed my meal; but I did not in the least, and I certainly did not feel in the slightest degree at home.
"What time did you go to bed over yonder, Grant ?" said the old gentleman.
"Ten o'clock, sir." "And what time did you get up ?" "Eight, sir." "Ugh, you extravagant young dog!" he cried.