Would that it were possible to set down a literal report of the
conversation which passed during hours thus spent! Much of it, of
course, would be merely revolting, but for the most part it would
consist of such wearying, such incredible imbecilities as no human
patience could endure through five minutes' perusal. Realise it,
however, and you grasp the conditions of what is called the social
problem. As regards Robert Hewett in particular, it would help you
to understand the momentous change in his life which was just coming
to pass.
On his reaching home at eleven o'clock, Pennyloaf met him with the
news that Jack Bartley had looked in twice and seemed very anxious
to see him. To-morrow being Saturday, Jack would call again early in
the afternoon. When the time came, he presented himself, hungry and
dirty as ever, but with an unwonted liveliness in his eye.
'I've got something to say to you,' be began, in a low voice,
nodding significantly towards Pennyloaf.
'Go and buy what you want for to-morrow,' said Bob to his wife,
giving her some money out of his wages. 'Take the kids.'
Disappointed in being thus excluded from confidence, but obedient as
ever, Pennyloaf speedily prepared herself and the children, the
younger of whom she still had to carry.
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