Christian?"

"Church of England," said Mr. Polly.

"H'm," said the employer a little checked. "For good all round
business work I should have preferred a Baptist. Still--"

He studied Mr. Polly's tie, which was severely neat and businesslike,
as became an aspiring outfitter. Mr. Polly's conception of his own
pose and expression was rendered by that uncontrollable phrasemonger
at the back as "Obsequies Deference."

"I am inclined," said the prospective employer in a conclusive manner,
"to look up your reference."

Mr. Polly stood up abruptly.

"Thank you," said the employer and dismissed him.

"Chump chops! How about chump chops?" said the phrasemonger with an
air of inspiration.

"I hope then to hear from you, sir," said Mr. Polly in his best
salesman manner.

"If everything is satisfactory," said the prospective employer.


II