Gatliffe looked confused, and did not very well know what answer to make.
“I think you look remarkably well,” he muttered, “and only wish I looked half as well.”
“Oh! you flatterer. But come, let me beg of you to have a glass of wine.”
“Thank you, I had rather not.”
“Nay, but you must.”
“I’m a business man, and have much to attend to, and therefore seldom take anything in the morning.”
“A little brandy and seltzer won’t hurt you. Bah! don’t make a wry face—you are strong as a young Hercules.”
“Am I? I dont feel so,” returned Gatliffe, with a smile.
He, however, consented to quaff the contents of the proffered glass.
“I dare say you think me a singular sort of person,” remarked his companion; “and, to say the truth, I believe I am.”