"Keep your distance, sir, or take the consequences."
The Gentleman strolled forward.
"Ah, there you are, Padre. I came to have a little chat."
"Stand fast then, and state your business!—This is war, not play- acting. I hate your silly swagger."
"Well, in the first place I thought you might care to know that your man's through."
"Thank you for nothing. Knew that already."
"But you know—there's always a little but in this world—hateful word, isn't it?—but, but, but—he's too late."
"What ye mean?"
"I mean that Nelson reached Dover last night, and sails this afternoon. The Medusa'll be off here at dawn if this breeze holds."
Dover!