"These attempts at humor," said he, "are very mal à propos, Mr. Hickory." Then, with a return to his usual tone: "Did you cross the bridge at a run?"
"Yes, sir."
"And did you keep up your pace when you got to the highroad?"
"No, I did not."
"You did not?"
"No, sir."
"And why, may I ask?"
"I was tired."
"Tired?"