“‘That brings me upon an eminence,’ said the gentleman in blue. ‘I’ll be d—d if I be made a cock shot of!’
“‘What an awkward little thief it is in the hairy waistcoat!’ said my father; ‘he’s lucky if he don’t get shot himself!’
“‘May I never, if I’m not sick of you both!’ ejaculated rabbit-skin, in a passion. ‘I’ve moved you round every point of the compass, and the devil a nearer we are than ever!’
“‘Give us the word,’ said one.
“‘The word!’
“‘Downright murder,’ said my father.
“‘I don’t care,’ said the little man; ‘we shall be here till doomsday.’
“‘I can’t permit this,’ said my father; ‘allow me.’ So saying, he stepped upon the window-sill, and leaped down into the field.
“‘Before I can accept of your politeness,’ said he of the rabbit-skin, ‘may I beg to know your name and position in society?’
“‘Nothing more reasonable,’ said my father. ‘I’m Miles O’Shaughnessy, Colonel of the Royal Raspers,—here is my card.’