This was the only person in sight. He might be able to say something
concerning his opulent neighbour. To him, therefore, I resolved to
apply. I went up to him, and, pointing to the house in question, asked
him who lived there.

He answered, "Mr. Matthews."

"What is his profession,--his way of life?"

"A gentleman. He does nothing but walk about."

"How long has he been married?"

"Married! He is not married as I know on. He never has been married. He
is a bachelor."

This intelligence was unexpected. It made me pause to reflect whether I
had not mistaken the house. This, however, seemed impossible. I renewed
my questions.

"A bachelor, say you? Are you not mistaken?"

"No. It would be an odd thing if he was married. An old fellow, with one
foot in the grave--Comical enough for him to _git_ a _vife_!"

"An old man? Does he live alone? What is his family?"

"No, he does not live alone. He has a niece that lives with him. She is
married, and her husband lives there too."