'I didn't say I wanted more, did I?' asked the driver, with something
like indignation.
'You didn't say my offer was enough,' rejoined Martin.
'Why, how could I, when you wouldn't let me? In regard to the waistcoat,
I wouldn't have a man's waistcoat, much less a gentleman's waistcoat,
on my mind, for no consideration; but the silk handkerchief's another
thing; and if you was satisfied when we got to Hounslow, I shouldn't
object to that as a gift.'
'Is it a bargain, then?' said Martin.
'Yes, it is,' returned the other.
'Then finish this beer,' said Martin, handing him the mug, and pulling
on his coat with great alacrity; 'and let us be off as soon as you
like.'
In two minutes more he had paid his bill, which amounted to a shilling;
was lying at full length on a truss of straw, high and dry at the top
of the van, with the tilt a little open in front for the convenience of
talking to his new friend; and was moving along in the right direction
with a most satisfactory and encouraging briskness.
The driver's name, as he soon informed Martin, was William Simmons,
better known as Bill; and his spruce appearance was sufficiently
explained by his connection with a large stage-coaching establishment at
Hounslow, whither he was conveying his load from a farm belonging to
the concern in Wiltshire.
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