Moredock rose, went to a shelf, and took down a cup; the squeaking of the cork was followed by the gurgle of some fluid, and then there was a sound represented by the word “glug,” and the sexton drew a long breath.
“Hah! that puts life in a man,” he said. “Be careful not to take too much.”
“Ay! don’t be skeared, doctor; I know,” said the old man. “One thumb deep. I’ve measured it times enough. I didn’t leave a light. Might take attention. Young Joe Chegg gets hanging about. Thinks he wants my Polly, but he won’t get her. Comes peeping in at this window sometimes to see if she’s here. Now I’m ready.”
“Got everything you want?” said North. “Keys—lanthorn?”
“Ay! Got everything I want; but have you got everything you want?”
“Yes, man, yes.”
“And look here, doctor; mind this: it’s your job, and you’re making me do it.”
“What do you mean, sir?”
“I mean as I arn’t going to stand the racket if it’s found out. Spose Parson Salis comes down upon me about it?”
“I understand you now,” said the doctor sternly; “and I promise to hold you free.”