Chapter Twenty.
Beneath the Lady’s Lattice-Pane.
Dick Smithson turned round in astonishment to gaze in the face of his companion, whose act had at once taken the attention of a couple of soldiers, out beyond their time, and of some men with whom they were drinking.
“Call for something, Smithson,” whispered the lieutenant, glancing back anxiously at the door.
“But I don’t want anything, sir,” said Dick, angrily.
“Never mind; treat me, then.”
Dick stared, wondering whether his companion was going out of his mind.
“Don’t stop,” whispered the lieutenant. “Order some beer.”
With the reason beginning to dawn upon him now, Dick ordered and paid for two pots of ale, which he handed to the two half-tipsy soldiers, who began proposing their health just as steps and voices were heard passing.
The next minute they were outside.