Put it down while you stay, at any rate,' said Brass, taking it from

him and making some confusion among the papers, in finding a place

for it on the desk. 'I was thinking, Kit, that we have often houses to let

for people we are concerned for, and matters of that sort. Now you

know we're obliged to put people into those houses to take care of 'em

very often undeserving people that we can't depend upon. What's to

prevent our having a person that we CAN depend upon, and enjoying

the delight of doing a good action at the same time? I say, what's to

prevent our employing this worthy woman, your mother? What with

one job and another, there's lodging - and good lodging too - pretty

well all the year round, rent free, and a weekly allowance besides, Kit,

that would provide her with a great many comforts she don't at

present enjoy. Now what do you think of that? Do you see any

objection? My only desire is to serve you, Kit; therefore if you do, say

so freely.'

As Brass spoke, he moved the hat twice or thrice, and shuffled among

the papers again, as if in search of something.

'How can I see any objection to such a kind offer, sir?' replied Kit with

his whole heart. 'I don't know how to thank you sir, I don't indeed.'

Why then,' said Brass, suddenly turning upon him and thrusting his

face close to Kit's with such a repulsive smile that the latter, even in

the very height of his gratitude, drew back, quite startled. 'Why then,

it's done.'

Kit looked at him in some confusion.

'Done, I say,' added Sampson, rubbing his hands and veiling himself

again in his usual oily manner. 'Ha ha! and so you shall find Kit, so

you shall find. But dear me,' said Brass, 'what a time Mr Richard is

gone! A sad loiterer to be sure! Will you mind the office one minute,

while I run up-stairs? Only one minute. I'll not detain you an instant

longer, on any account, Kit.'

Talking as he went, Mr Brass bustled out of the office, and in a very

short time returned. Mr Swiveller came back, almost at the same

instant; and as Kit was leaving the room hastily, to make up for lost

time, Miss Brass herself encountered him in the doorway.

Oh!' sneered Sally, looking after him as she entered. 'There goes your

pet, Sammy, eh?'

'Ah! There he goes,' replied Brass. 'My pet, if you please. An honest

fellow, Mr Richard, sir - a worthy fellow indeed!'

'Hem!' coughed Miss Brass.

The Old Curiosity Shop