Tetlow declined champagne, accepted half a dozen of the huge oysters. "I've been after you for nearly a week," said he to Norman.
"Pity you weren't with me," said Norman. "I've been getting acquainted with large numbers of my fellow citizens."
"From the Bowery to Yonkers."
"Exactly. Don't fall asleep, Gaskill."
But Gaskill was snoring with his head on the back of his chair and his throat presented as if for the as of the executioner. "He's all in," said Tetlow.
"That's the way it goes," complained Norman. "I can't find anyone to keep me company."
Tetlow laughed. "You look as if you had just started out," said he. "Tell me—where have you slept?"
"I haven't had time to sleep as yet."
"I dropped in to suggest that a little sleep wouldn't do any harm."
"Not quite yet. Watch our friends eat. It gives me an appetite. Waiter, another dozen all round—and some more of this carbonated white wine you've labeled champagne."