‘Clap-trap!’ said Roger, who in his present mood was very bitter.

’The money is not clap-trap, my friend.  I presume that the money is really paid.’

‘I don’t feel at all sure of that.’

’Our collectors for clerical charities are usually stern men,—­very ready to make known defalcations on the part of promising subscribers.  I think they would take care to get the money during the election.’

‘And you think that money got in that way redounds to his credit?’

’Such a gift shows him to be a useful member of society,—­and I am always for encouraging useful men.’

‘Even though their own objects may be vile and pernicious?’

’There you beg ever so many questions, Mr Carbury.  Mr Melmotte wishes to...