“Now what do you think of that?” he drew out with a long breath.
“I haven’t begun to think yet,” Gladwin managed to stammer. “I’m in no condition to think. I’m stunned.”
“And you’ve travelled all over the universe in search of a thrill, eh? Now you’ve got one you don’t know what to do with it.”
While Gladwin was groping for a reply to this thrust Bateato breezed in with a swift sidelong rush, carrying a bulging portmanteau.
“Bag all packed, sair,” announced the little Jap, standing at attention.
“Take it back. I’m not going now,” said Gladwin, gruffly. Bateato’s entrance had nipped another idea in the bud.
“You no go?” said the Jap, in surprise.
“No go––take back––unpack.”
“Ees, sair; ’scuse me,” and Bateato started off with his usual noiseless rush.