Mr. Lovel made an attempt at dignity.
"These are my papers, sir," he blustered. "I know not by what authority you examine them." But his protest failed because of the instability of his legs, on which his potations early and recent had suddenly a fatal effect. He was compelled to collapse heavily in the arm-chair by the hearth.
"I observe that the gentleman has lately been powdering his hair," said the boy whom they called Nick.
Mr. Lovel was wroth. He started upon the usual drunkard's protestations, but was harshly cut short by Talbot.