“Because of the Taxes,” groaned the Doctor-in-law.
“What do you mean? Explain yourself!” demanded the Wallypug.
“We taxed them one and ninepence three farthings a day for getting up!” faltered the Doctor-in-law, “and, now that the other taxes are so heavy, nobody has any money left, and so they are obliged to stop in bed.”
The Wallypug looked very angry. “Where is the Town Crier?” he asked at length.
“In prison,” answered the Doctor-in-law, turning pale.
“What for, pray?” cried the Wallypug.
“Taxes,” moaned the Doctor-in-law.
The Wallypug frowned and, walking over to the other side of the room, pulled the bell rope violently.
The Cockatoo began to sob and the Doctor-in-law threw himself down on his knees again.
“The Servants have all gone away,” he said tremblingly.