tistically curled. The table in
front of him was covered with glasses and bottles. Two shocking
looking scamps of the true barrier bully type, with loose cravats and
shiny-peaked caps, were seated by him, and were evidently his guests.
Tantaine's first impulse was to catch the debauched youth by the ear,
but he hesitated for an instant and reflection conquered the impulse.
With the utmost caution so that he might not attract Toto's attention,
he crept down to him, concealing himself as best he could behind one
of the pillars that supported the gallery, and by this manoeuvre found
himself so close to the lad that he could catch every word he said.

Chupin was talking volubly.

"Don't you call me a swell, nor yet say that I brag," said he. "I
shall always make this kind of appearance, for to work in the manner I
propose, a man must pay some attention to dress."

At this his companions roared with laughter.

"All right," returned Toto. "I'm precious sharp, though you may not
think so, and shall go in for all kinds of elegant accomplishments, and
come out a regular masher."

"Wonders will never cease," answered one of the men. "When you go on
your trip for action in the Bois among the toffs, will you take me with
you?"

"Any one can go to the Bois who has money: and just tell me who are
those who make money. Why, those who have plenty of cheek and a good
sound business. Well, I have learned my business from some real downy
cards, who made it pay well. Why should I not do the same?"

With a sickening feeling of terror, Tantaine saw that the lad was half
drunk. What could he be going to say? and how much did he know? Toto's
guests evidently saw that he had taken too much; but as he seemed ready
to let them into a secret, they paid great attention, and exchanged a
look of intelligence. The young rogue's new clothes and his liberality
all proved that he had found a means of gaining money; the only question
was what the plan could be. To induce him to talk they passed the bottle
rapidly and flattered him up. The younger man of the two shook his head
with a smile.

"I don't believe you have any business at all," said he.

"Nor have I, if by business you mean some low handicraft. It is brain
work I mean, my boy; and that's what I do."

"I don't doubt that a bit," answered the elder guest coaxingly.

"Come on! Tell us what it is," broke in the other. "You don't expect us
to take your word."

"It is as easy as lying,"