“Of course—our interest here is one. You have relieved my mind, by cock.”
“Have I? Then attack the bottle and be merry, and I’ll try to make you company.”
“No. I must go back to my sister. You want blood yourself, though. You’re peeked and haggard man; and no doubt late affairs have over-tried you.”
He went out. As the door closed upon him, a savage but irresistible sputter of laughter came from the lips of the other.
“Was ever solicitude more impudent?” he murmured. “To press me to fatten on my own wine for the sacrifice!”
Once more he went to and fro, while dark gathered about him. Not long elapsed before he leapt towards the door with a positive curse to hear it turn on its hinges again.
“Who’s there?” he cried angrily, and strode upon the offender.
He had no blame for it this time. He pulled her down into his arms, and pushed the door to, and fondled and caressed this poor partner of his disgrace. She was all frightened and trembling, it seemed; and she buried herself against him as a young rabbit snuggles into a corner.
“Where have you been this long hour, my Betty?” he said softly.
“I wanted to attend the lady of ‘Chatters’; but she was angry with me and has been saying cruel things.”