“Well,” he said, “Boney can call himself Emperor if he likes. I have to earn my half guinea at the Long Rooms.”
Bush was about to take this opportunity to ask Hornblower how he was profiting there, but he was interrupted by a rumble outside the door and a knock.
“Here comes your bed,” said Hornblower, walking over to open the door.
Maria came trundling the thing in. She smiled at them.
“Over here or over there?” she asked.
Hornblower looked at Bush.
“It doesn’t matter,” said Bush.
“I’ll put it against the wall, then.”
“Let me help,” said Hornblower.
“Oh no, sir. Please, sir, I can do it.”