Page:Oliver Twist (1838) vol. 2.djvu/25

Rh you're crossed by him in this job you have on hand, you'll prevent his ever telling tales afterwards] by shooting him through the head, and take your chance of swinging for it as you do for a great many other things in the way of business every month of your life." "That's it!" observed Mr. Sikes, approvingly; "women can always put things in fewest words, except when it's blowing up, and then they lengthens it out. And now that he's thoroughly up to it, let's have some supper, and get a snooze afore starting." In pursuance of this request, Nancy quickly laid the cloth, and, disappearing for a few minutes, presently returned with a pot of porter and a dish of sheep's heads, which gave occasion to several pleasant witticisms on the part of Mr. Sikes, founded upon the singular coincidence of "jemmies" being a cant name common to them and an ingenious implement much used in his profession. Indeed, the worthy gentleman, stimulated perhaps by the immediate prospect of being in active service, was in great spirits and good-humour; in proof whereof