"By your good leave, sir."
"I had an apprehension the Colonel was going to ravish you away."
"I hope I am still of some use to Mr. Waverton."
"Damme, you might be the old family retainer. 'Faithful service of the antique world,' egad. I suppose you will end your days with Geoffrey, and be buried at his feet like a trusty hound."
"If you please, sir."
They looked at each other. "Well, Mr. Boyce, I beg your pardon," Hadley said. "But you'll allow you are irritating to a plain man."
"I do not desire it, sir."
"I may hold my tongue and mind my own business, eh? Why not take me friendly?"
"I intend you no harm, Mr. Hadley."
"That's devilish good of you, Mr. Boyce. To be plain with you, what do you want here?"