Podb. Rather! Told her it was t'other way round, and I was looking after you. Said you were suffering from melancholia, but were not absolutely dangerous.
Culch. If that's your idea of a joke, all I can say is——
[He chokes with rage.
Podb. (innocently). Why, my dear chap, I thought you wanted 'em kept out of your way!
[Culchard slams his bedroom door with temper, leaving Podbury outside, still chuckling.
CHAPTER III.
Culchard comes out of his Shell.
Scene—On the Coach from Braine l'Alleud to Waterloo. The vehicle has a Belgian driver, but the conductor is a true-born Briton. Mr. Cyrus K. Trotter and his daughter are behind with Podbury. Culchard, who is not as yet sufficiently on speaking terms with his friend to ask for an introduction, is on the box-seat in front.
Mr. Trotter. How are you getting along, Maud? Your seat pretty comfortable?