A diversion occurred here. Newman Chaytor snatched the candle from Jim the Hatter, in order that he might obtain a clearer view of Basil.
"Manners be hanged!" retorted Newman Chaytor, holding the candle high. "They're out of stock."
This was evident. To smooth matters Basil volunteered an explanation. "I have come hereupon business, but I am afraid I have lost my time."
"Perhaps not," said Jim the Hatter. "We're all business men here; ready at a moment's notice to turn a honest penny. That's true, ain't it, mate?"
He addressed Newman Chaytor, but that worthy did not reply. Having obtained a clearer view of Basil's face, he seemed to be suddenly struck dumb, and stared at it as though he were fascinated.
"Still," continued Jim the Hatter, "it's as well to be particular in these times. I'm very choice in the company I keep, and I don't as a rule do business with strangers, unless," he added, with a grin which found its reflection on the lips of Nonentities Numbers One and Two, "they pay their footing first."
"If you wish to know my name," said Basil, "it is Basil Whittingham."
"What!" cried Newman Chaytor, finding his tongue; but the exclamation of undoubted astonishment appeared to be forced from him instead of being voluntarily uttered.
"Basil Whittingham," repeated Basil. "Being here, I must stop for the night. Is there a stable near?"
"There's one at the back," said Newman Chaytor, with sudden alacrity, "or rather there was one. I'll show you."
"Thank you," said Basil, and followed his guide to the rear of the shanty.
The three men looked after them with no good will.
"He's a swell," said Nonentity Number One.
"He's got a watch and chain," said Nonentity Number Two.
Then they re-entered the store, and settled down to their game of cards.
"Stop here a moment," said Newman Chaytor to Basil. "I'll get a light."
Returning with a candle stuck in a bottle, the fashionable form of candlestick in Gum Flat, he waved it about, sometimes so close to Basil that it shone upon his features.
"You stare at me," said Basil, "as if you knew me."
"Never saw you before to my knowledge." (A falsehood, but that is a detail.) "You're not a colonial."
"I am an Englishman, like yourself, I judge."
"You have the advantage of me--you know my name. May I ask yours?"