lay his part badly. It had come home to him in some manner
that this peculiar period was of vital importance to the house, and
on each day he came down to business dressed in his very best. It
was pleasant to see him as he stood at the door, shining with bear's
grease, loaded with gilt chains, glittering with rings, with the
lappets of his coat thrown back so as to show his frilled shirt and
satin waistcoat. There he stood, rubbing his hands and looking out
upon the people as though he scorned to notice them. As regards
intellect, mind, apprehension, there was nothing to be found in the
personal appearance of Jones, but he certainly possessed an amount of
animal good looks which had its weight with weak-minded females.

The second notice was considered sufficient to attract notice on
Monday and Tuesday. On the latter day it became manifest that the
conduct of Johnson of Manchester had grown to be matter of public
interest, and the firm was aware that persons from a distance were
congregating in Bishopsgate Street, in order that they might see with
their own eyes the notices at Magenta House.

Early on the Wednesday, the third of the series appeared. It was very
short, and ran as follows:--

Johnson of Manchester is off!

The police are on his track!

This exciting piece of news was greedily welcomed by the walking
public, and a real crowd had congregated on the pavement by noon. A
little after that time, while Mr. Brown was still at dinner with his
daughter upstairs, a policeman called and begged to see some member
of the firm. Jones, whose timidity was overwhelming, immediately sent
for Mr. Brown; and he, also embarrassed, knocked at the door of Mr.
Robinson's little room, and asked for counsel.

"The Peelers are here, George," he said. "I knew there'd be a row."

"I hope so," said Robinson; "I most sincerely hope so."

As he stood up to answer his senior partner he saw that Miss Brown
was standing behind her father, and he resolved that, as regarded
this occasion, he would not be taunted with want of spirit.

"But what shall I say to the man?" asked Mr. Brown.

"Give him a shilling and a glass of spirits; beg him to keep the
people quiet outside, and promise him cold beef and beer at three
o'clock. If he runs rusty, send for me." And then, having thus
instructed the head of the house, he again seated himself before his
writing materials at the table.

"Mr. Robinson," said a soft voice, speaking