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"Why, no, thank you; this is a private visit to yourself, Mr.

Lorry; I have come for a private word."

"Oh indeed!" said Mr. Lorry, bending down his ear, while his eye

strayed to the House afar off.

"I am going," said Mr. Stryver, leaning his arms confidentially

on the desk: whereupon, although it was a large double one, there

appeared to be not half desk enough for him: "I am going to make

an offer of myself in marriage to your agreeable little friend,

Miss Manette, Mr. Lorry."

"Oh dear me!" cried Mr. Lorry, rubbing his chin, and looking at

his visitor dubiously.

"Oh dear me, sir?" repeated Stryver, drawing back. "Oh dear you,

sir? What may your meaning be, Mr. Lorry?"