"I have a pal, ma'am--a chum--a--in fact a _friend_--may I--"
Without finishing his sentence or waiting for a reply, the Bloater gave
a sharp whistle, and Little Jim stood by his side as if by magical
influence, looking the embodiment of united innocence and impudence.
"Come in, both of you, and make haste," said Mary, ushering them into a
small empty room. "Now, boy--"
"Bloater, ma'am, if you 'ave no objection."
"Well, Bloater, our communication with each other must be brief and to
the point, because--"
"Yes, ma'am--sharp and short," interrupted the Bloater--"reasons not
required."