Lavender, "and
sorry that I occasioned so much disturbance."
"Don't mention it, sir," answered the policeman; "you came a nasty
crump."
"Tell me," said Mr. Lavender, suddenly looking up into his face, "do
you consider that a man is justified in living a private life? For, as
regards my future, it is largely on your opinion that I shall act."
The policeman, whose solid face showed traces of astonishment, answered
slowly: "As a general thing, a man's private life don't bear lookin'
into, as you know, sir."
"I have not lived one for some time," said Mr. Lavender.
"Well," remarked the policeman, "if you take my advice you won't try it
a-gain. I should say you 'adn't the constitution."
"I fear you do not catch my meaning," returned Mr. Lavender, whose whole
body was aching from his fall; "it is my public life which tries me."
"Well, then, I should chuck it," said the policeman.
"Really?" murmured Mr. Lavender eagerly, "would you?"
"Why not?" said the policeman.
So excited was Mr. Lavender by this independent confirmation of his
sudden longing that he took out half a crown.
"You will oblige me greatly," he said, "by accepting this as a token of
my gratitude."
"Well, sir, I'll humour you," answered the policeman; "though it was
no trouble, I'm sure; you're as light as a feather.
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