He wore a full suit
of black, but the coat and trousers were white with age and
dust-stains; an open waistcoat, exposing an embroidered shirt which
could not have been washed for months; his hat was napless, and had a
limp brim; no gloves, and the grimiest of hands. But he was decorated,
and wore a ribbon, probably of St. Lucifer.
"In soap, or shavings, or shoddy; what does it matter to you? When can
I have the money?"
"Never; not another sixpence."
"Then I shall publish all I know."
"No one will believe you."
"I have proofs."
"Which are forged. I tell you I'm too strong for you: you will find
yourself in the wrong box. I am sick of this; and I mean to put an end
to your extortion."
"You dare me. You know the consequences."
"The first consequence will be that I shall give you in charge. Be
off!"
"You shall have a week to think better of it."
Gilly rang the bell.
"Shall I send for a policeman, or will you go?"
He went, muttering imprecations intermixed with threats; but Gilly
Jillingham, quite proud of his courage, seemed for the moment callous
to both. He little dreamt how soon the latter would be put into
effect.
Within a few days of this interview the greatest event of Mrs.
Purling's whole social career was due; she was to entertain royalty
beneath her own roof.
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