Sailors' Knots (Entire Collection). W. W. Jacobs

the palings and peered at a card that stood on the window-sash:

FURNISHED APARTMENTS FOR SINGLE YOUNG MAN BOARD IF DESIRED.

      He walked away whistling, and after going a little way turned and passed it again. He passed in all four times, and then, with an odd grin lurking at the corners of his mouth, strode up to the front door and knocked loudly. He heard somebody moving about inside, and, more with the idea of keeping his courage up than anything else, gave another heavy knock at the door. It was thrown open hastily, and the astonished face of his wife appeared before him.

      “What do you want?” she inquired, sharply.

      Mr. Hatchard raised his hat. “Good-afternoon, ma'am,” he said, politely.

      “What do you want?” repeated his wife.

      “I called,” said Mr. Hatchard, clearing his throat—“I called about the bill in the window.”