On the very next day but one I was sitting behind my glass partition,as before,when he came into the outer office,as before.The moment I saw him again without hearing him,I hated him worse than ever.
It was only for a moment that I had this opportunity;for he waved his tight-fitting black glove the instant I looked at him,and came straight in.
Mr.Sampson,good-day!I presume,you see,upon your kind permission to intrude upon you.I don't keep my word in being justified by business,for my business here -if I may so abuse the word -is of the slightest nature.
I asked was it anything I could assist him in?
I thank you,no.I merely called to inquire outside whether my dilatory friend had been so false to himself as to be practical and sensible.But,of course,he has done nothing.I gave him your papers with my own hand,and he was hot upon the intention,but of course he has done nothing.Apart from the general human disinclination to do anything that ought to be done,I dare say there is a specially about assuring one's life.You find it like will-making.People are so superstitious,and take it for granted they will die soon afterwards.
Up here,if you please;straight up here,Mr.Sampson.Neither to the right nor to the left.'I almost fancied I could hear him breathe the words as he sat smiling at me,with that intolerable parting exactly opposite the bridge of my nose.
There is such a feeling sometimes,no doubt,I replied;'but Idon't think it obtains to any great extent.
Well,'said he,with a shrug and a smile,I wish some good angel would influence my friend in the right direction.I rashly promised his mother and sister in Norfolk to see it done,and he promised them that he would do it.But I suppose he never will.'