[Returning with the bottle, which he sets down on the floor in front of the mantelpiece.] Here's your bottle! Got the stopper?

Fakrash.

[After some fumbling in his robes, finds the metal cap and gives it to Horace.] It is here. Now swear to me by the beard of Progress that thou wilt drop me into deep waters, even as thou hast promised!

Horace.

I swear it—by the beard of Progress—on whom be peace!... You step in, sir, and leave the rest to me.

Fakrash.

[As he raises his arms and moves towards the fireplace.] To escape into a bottle is pleasant!

Horace.

Delightful!

Fakrash.