"They are two irrelevant cities," observed the butler; "and not by no manner of means indentical."
"The cities is different, but the men is the same," said Snoggles.
"I can't apprehend your meaning."
"Well—I will speak plain. Did you hear me tell Suggett the story about my old master, last night at the Servants' Arms?"
"No—I was engaged in a colloquial discourse at the time."
"Then I will tell you the adventur' over agin;"—and Mr. Snoggles related the incident accordingly.
Mr. Whittingham was quite astounded; and he delivered himself of many impressive observations upon the affair, but which we shall not be cruel enough to inflict upon our readers.
It was about half-past twelve o'clock when Richard returned home. His countenance was pale and anxious; and he vainly endeavoured to smile as he encountered his faithful old dependant.
"Ah! Master Richard, I was sadly afraid that you had fallen into some trepidation!"
"A very unpleasant adventure, Whittingham—which I will relate to you another time—kept me away from home. I was with Sir Rupert Harborough and Mr. Chichester——"