After this came a long-bladed dagger knife.
And finally, there was a cut-and-thrust sword of alarming dimensions.
"You shall see now," said Mole, sternly, "how I can despise such trivialities as your bastinado."
What was he about to do now?
In solemn silence, Mr. Mole bared his right calf, then requested the company of his black servant Tinker, who was still in the hall.
The request was granted.
"Tinker."
"Yes, Massa Mole."
"Go and fetch me——"
Here he sank his voice to a whisper, and the rest of his instructions were heard by no one save the darkey, for whom they were intended.