CHAPTER XXIX

TOUCHES UPON THE WOES OF BEN “Good morning Mr. Dallas, sir, and glad I am to see you up and about again, I’m sure.” “Thank you, Mrs. Weldon. You’re looking fine . . . and the old ‘Duck’ so bright and cosy. It seems ages since I was here.” “Why yes, sir, time do seem long when you’m ill.” “And how’s everyone?” “All pretty well, sir.” “And ‘The Festive Cake,’ the picture of those nice, plump . . . kittens, I think you said—hangs it where it did?” “Oh yes, sir, ’tis never moved, except Fridays when I dusts it. And Mr.…