The voice became charged with indignation. "Look here, sir — !"
"And if you were, to wake you up. Are you asleep, Sergeant?"
"No, sir, I am not — thanks to you! And if this is one of your little jokes…'
"Are you feeling fit, Sergeant? Full of energy and enthusiasm?"
There was a sound of heavy breathing. "One of these days," said the voice with emotion, "something'll happen to you, sir."
"Well, let's hope so anyway," said Mr. Amberley.
"I do," said the voice grimly. "Keeping me standing here in my nightshirt while you ask me silly conundrums!"
"I don't want to keep you in your nightshirt," said Mr. Amberley. "I feel sure I should hate you in it. Go and dress."
"Go and… Here, sir, what's this all about? What have I got to dress for?"
"Decency," said Mr. Amberley. "I'm coming to fetch you for a little run in my car. I shall be round in about fifteen minutes. So long!"