I let him, of course. As far as it goes, it's property and portable.

You don't object to an aged parent, I hope?”

I really thought he was still speaking of the fowl, until he added, “Because I have got an aged parent at my place.” I then said what politeness required.

“So, you haven't dined with Mr. Jaggers yet?” he pursued, as we walked along.

“Not yet.”

“He told me so this afternoon when he heard you were coming. I expect you'll have an invitation to-morrow. He's going to ask your pals, too.

Three of 'em; ain't there?”

Although I was not in the habit of counting Drummle as one of my intimate associates, I answered,