Monarch of Mincing Lane

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1883 edition. Excerpt: ...that a pretty gentleman? Her is a lady, objected Master Henry. Did you ever see a lady with a moustache? Her has a gown and 'ticoats on, replied the boy, as if that settled the matter about the sex of the person; and then he added sagely, -- Her cannot put on her boots and go out, for her is a pitture. At this moment Mr. Dufton senior entered the room, and was at once greeted by his son's asking him--pointing to Philip meanwhile-- What's him's name? --a question which he ventured to overlook. Law bless me, Mr. Philip, said the small wiry man with the tight trowsers, stiff little collar, and the brown-red face that reminded one of a frosted pippin, it's a long time since I see you. Times are changed since then, ain't they? You see, he added, looking around the comfortable and cleanly room, I ain't got much reason to regret the row as 'appened between your father and me, when he throwed the bottle at my 'ed. And I don't bear him no malice, Mr. Philip; and if so be as you want anything in my way, I'll let you 'ave as good a thing as you'll see. _I do want something in your way, Mr. Dufton, said Philip. I want you to give me some work. Law! you're joking. Mr. Philip! No, I'm not. WeJJ-a-day! said the good-natured Dufton compassionately; and, as it come to that? Poor old gentleman! Its a bad thing for him at his time of life: and if I can do anything, I will. I don't bear no malice, as I say. And them downfalls will happen to the richest on us No, you mistake, said Philip. My father has suffered no change of fortune. He is as rich as ever he was. Ah, I see, said Dufton with a sage nod. A quarrel. Well, if I must tell the truth, Mr. Philip, I'd sooner do you a good turn than him--not that I wouldn't...