He took stock of me, from my dirty boots to my bare head, and then said solemnly, "No, sir!"
"William," said I, "but that's precisely what I am."
"Yes, sir," he replied.
"Therefore this is precisely your opportunity, William."
"Yes, sir," said he.
"William," I went on insinuatingly, "I think you could, knowing this house so intimately as you do, make me look something like an assistant aide-de-camp to a prince. It's a tough job, William, but you'll do it. I can see it in your eye. By virtue of the power adherent to the assistant aide-de-camp of a prince, we hereby authorize you to do all things that may be necessary for the accomplishment of our purpose, and, when your task is over, you will, by a curious coincidence, find five guineas under yon candlestick. Life, William, is full of coincidences."
"Yes, sir."
"But not as full of guineas, William, as it should be. Set to work!"
Instead of going he stood there, gently washing his hands with imaginary soap and water, and finally said, "You will of course, sir, be very angry if I do not do as you bid me."
"I shall, William," said I, lathering away at my chin.