To him, in this sunny moment of relief, enter a Mr Rodgerson, a

creditor, but not one who was expected to be pressing, for his

connection with the firm was old and regular.

'O, Finsbury,' said he, not without embarrassment, 'it's of course only

fair to let you know--the fact is, money is a trifle tight--I have some

paper out--for that matter, every one's complaining--and in short--'

It has never been our habit, Rodgerson,' said Morris, turning pale.

But give me time to turn round, and I'll see what I can do; I daresay

we can let you have something to account.'

'Well, that's just where is,' replied Rodgerson. 'I was tempted; I've

let the credit out of MY hands.'

'Out of your hands?' repeated Morris. 'That's playing rather fast and

loose with us, Mr Rodgerson.'

'Well, I got cent. for cent. for it,' said the other, 'on the nail, in a

certified cheque.'

'Cent. for cent.!' cried Morris. 'Why, that's something like thirty per

cent. bonus; a singular thing! Who's the party?'

'Don't know the man,' was the reply. 'Name of Moss.'

218

The Wrong Box