George Tomata, a
connection of the family, but unknown to Pigeon, calls at the house, and
is denied admittance by the servant, but Pigeon, happening to come down
asks if he has any message of importance to transact--
"'Not in the least, no--not at all,' answered Tomata leisurely
ascending the stairs, and with Mr Pigeon entering the drawing-room,
'So, the Pigeons are not at home yet eh?'
"'Mr. and Mrs. Pigeon the day of their marriage,' answered Pigeon
softly, 'went to Brighton.'
"'Ha! well, that's not three weeks yet. Of course, Sir, you are
intimate with Mr. Pigeon?'
"'I have the pleasure, sir,' said Samuel.
"'You lodge here, no doubt? Excuse me, although I have not with you
the pleasure--and doubtless it is a very great one--of knowing
Pigeon, still I am very intimate with his little wife.'
"'Indeed, Sir. I never heard her name--'
"'I dare say not, Sir; I dare say not. Oh very intimate; we wore
petticoats together. Baby companions, sir--baby companions--used to
bite the same pear.'
"'Really sir,'--and Pigeon shifted in his seat--'I was not aware of
so early and delicate a connection between yourself and Mrs.
Pigeon.'
"'We were to have been married, yes, I may say, the wedding-ring
was over the first joint of her finger.
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