Arthur Morrison

Tales of Mean Streets Arthur Morrison

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1921. Excerpt: ... Lizerunt I. SOMEWHERE in the register was written the name Elizabeth Hunt; but seventeen years after the entry the spoken name was Lizerunt. Lizerunt worked at a pickle factory, and appeared abroad in an elaborate and shabby costume, usually supplemented by a white apron. Withal she was something of a beauty. That is to say, her cheeks were very red, her teeth were very large and white, her nose was small and snub, and her fringe was long and shiny; while her face, newwashed, was susceptible of a high polish. Many such girls are married at sixteen, but Lizerunt was belated, and had never a bloke at all. Billy Chope was a year older than Lizerunt He wore a billycock with a thin brim and a permanent dent in the crown; he had a bobtail coat, with the collar turned up at one side and down at the other, as an expression of independence; between his meals he carried his hands in his breeches pockets; and he lived with his mother, who mangled. His conversation with Lizerunt consisted long of perfunctory nods; but great things happened this especial Thursday evening, as Lizerunt, making for home, followed the fading red beyond the furthermost end of Commercial Road. For Billy Chope, slouching in the opposite direction, lurched across the pavement as they met, and taking the nearest hand from his pocket, caught and twisted her arm, bumping her against the wall. "Garn," said Lizerunt, greatly pieased: "le' go!" For she knew that this was love. "Where yer auf to, Lizer?" "'Ome, o' course, cheeky. Le' goand she snatched--in vain--at Billy's hat. Billy let go, and capered in front of her. She feigned to dodge by him, careful not to be too quick, because affairs were developing. "I say, Lizer," said Billy, stopping his dance and becoming business-like, "going anywhere Monday?" "Not along o' you, ...