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Gissing, George, 1857-1903

"The Unclassed"


"What is the matter with you?" he asked. "Why are you trembling?"
"Don't look round. It's that fellow behind us; I know he is
following."
"Somebody you know?"
"Yes, and hate. Worse than that, I'm afraid of him. Will you keep
with me till he's gone?"
"Of course I will. What harm can he do you though?"
"None that I know of. It's a strange stupid feeling I have. I can't
bear the sight of him. Don't look round!"
"Has he been a--a friend of yours?"
"No, no; not in that way. But he follows me about. He'll drive me
out of London, I know."
They had reached Piccadilly Circus.
"Look back now," she said, "and see if he's following still."
Waymark turned his head; the man was at a little distance behind. He
stopped when be saw himself observed, and stood on the edge of the
pavement, tapping his boot with his cane. He was a tall and rather
burly fellow, well dressed, with a clean-shaven face.
"Let's make haste round the corner," the girl said, "and get into
the restaurant. You must have some supper with me."
"I should be very happy, had I a penny in my pocket."
"See how easily good deeds are forgotten," returned the other,
laughing in the old way.


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