"I did not know you were here, sir! I want to speak to you."

"I am at your service, Mr. Willum."

"Well, sir. George and I are a little short just at present; it is
only for a time, and George says he should take it very kind if you
would lend us a hundred pound, just to help us over the stile."

"Why, Mr. Willum," replied Meadows, "I should be delighted, and if you
had only asked me yesterday, I could have done it as easy as stand
here; but my business drinks a deal of money, Mr. Willum, and I laid
out all my loose cash yesterday; but, of course, it is of no
consequence--another time--good morning, Mr. Willum."

Away sauntered Meadows, leaving William planted there, as the French
say.

George ran out of the kitchen.

"Well?"

"He says he has got no money loose."

"He is a liar! he paid 1,600 pounds into the bank yesterday, and you
knew it; didn't you tell him so?"

"No; what use? A man that lies to avoid lending won't be driven to
lend."