So, instead of going up the steps to the front door, he
descended into the area. Bessie herself opened to him, and after a
shrewd glance, made as though she would close the door again.
'Nothing for you! The idea of beggars coming down the area-steps Be
off!'
'I'm worse than a beggar,' replied Sidney. 'Housebreaking's more in
my line,'
And he attempted to force an entrance. Bessie struggled, but had to
give in, overcome with laughter. Samuel was enjoying a pipe in the
front kitchen; in spite of the dignity of keeping a servant (to whom
the back kitchen was sacred), Mr. and Mrs. Byass frequently spent
their evenings below stairs in the same manner as of old.
The talk began with Sidney's immediate difficulties.
'Now if it had only happened half a year ago,' said Bessie, 'I
should have got you into our first-floor rooms.'
'Shouldn't wonder if we have him there yet, some day,' remarked Sam,
winking at his wife.
'Not him,' was Bessie's rejoinder, with a meaning smile. 'He's a
cool hand, is Mr. Kirkwood. He knows how to wait. When _something_
happens, we shall have him taking a house out at Highbury, you see
if he don't.'
Sidney turned upon her with anything but a jesting look.
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