Could it be possible that the man did not know that all the world was united in accusing him of forgery?  ‘I’ll tell you what it is,’ said Nidderdale.  ’I think you had better see my governor again, Mr Melmotte.’

‘There’s nothing wrong, I hope.’

’Well;—­I don’t know.  You’d better see him.  I’m going now.  I only just came down to enter an appearance.’  He had to cross Melmotte on his way out, and as he did so Melmotte grasped him by the hand.  ’Good night, my boy,’ said Melmotte quite aloud,—­in a voice much louder than that which members generally allow themselves for conversation.  Nidderdale was confused and unhappy; but there was probably...