'Oh, of course I remember you! What was I thinking about? I've had such a lot of worry lately that I don't know whether I'm on my head or my heels. Besides, you've grown since then, and changed a lot. You're Billy―Billy'
'Billy Anderson's my name.'
'Of course! To be sure! I remember you quite well.'
'How've you been gettin' on, Mrs. Aspinall?'
'Ah! Don't mention it―nothing but worry and trouble―nothing but worry and trouble. This grinding poverty! I'll never have anything else but worry and trouble and misery so long as I live.'
'Do you live in Jones's Alley yet?'
'Yes.'
'Not bin there ever since, have you?'
'No; I shifted away once, but I went back again. I was away nearly two years.'
'I thought so, because I called to see you there once. Well, I'm goin' that way now. You goin' home, Mrs. Aspinall?'
'Yes.'
'Well, I'll go along with yon, if you don't mind.'
'Thanks. I'd only be too glad of company.'
'Goin' to walk, Mrs. Aspinall?' asked Bill, as the tram stopped in their way.
'Yes. I can't afford trams now―times are too hard.'
'Sorry I don't happen to have no tickets on me!'
'Oh, don't mention it. I'm well used to walking. I'd rather walk than ride.'
They waited till the tram passed.
