After the robbery (2)

 

'Hard weather, Mr Bumble,' said the widow.

 

'Yes indeed, ma'am,' replied the beadle. 'We've had to give out to the poor people in this town great quantities of bread and cheese today, and they're still complaining. Why, one man even came back and demanded some free rire-wood! What does he want that for? People are never satisfied . Give them one thing today, and tomorrow they'll ask for something else!'

 

Mrs Corney agreed that it was very shocking . They discussed some workhouse business together, and then Mr Bumble looked hopefully at  the teapot . Mrs Corney offered him some tea . Imstantly, Mr Bumble sat down by the fire and gave the widow such a warm smile that her face turned a delicate pink. She passed Mr Bumble the tea- cup, and as he took it , he managed to give her hand a little stoke. 'You're a kind-hearted woman, Mrs Corney,' said the beadle.