'I'd better do for her altogether,' said Bob, with an evil grin.
Clam looked at him, without speaking; kept her gaze on him; then she
said in a thick voice:
'There's many a true word said in joke.'
Bob moved uncomfortably. There was a brief silence, then the other,
putting her face nearer his:
'Not just yet. I want to use her to get all I can about that girl
and her old beast of a grandfather. Mind you do as I tell you.
Pennyloaf's to have her back again, and she's to make her talk, and
you're to get all you can from Pennyloaf--understand?'
There came noises from the shop. Three work-girls had just entered
and were buying cakes, which they began to eat at the counter. They
were loud in gossip and laughter, and their voices rang like brass
against brass. Clem amused herself in listening to them for a few
minutes; then she became absent, moving a finger round and round on
her plate. A disagreeable flush still lingered under her eyes.
'Have you told her about Clara?'
'Told who?'
'Who? Pennyloaf, of course.'
'No, I haven't. Why should I?'
'Oh, you're such a affectionate couple! See, you're only to give her
two shillin's next week.
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