“‘You are a noble officer, sir. I think you have been requested to tell me what has become of No. 78. As yet you have not followed your instructions.’
“‘I will bring the rascal in here and let him tell you what he is doing.’
“‘Is he running at large, doing nothing?’
“‘Yes, sir, and has the privilege of carrying some water along to take a drink when he gets thirsty.’
“‘Bring him here. I will try to find out from him what orders have been given him.
“‘I am going to see if I can solve this mystery. Mr. Pearson, are you ill? You are looking very pale. Do you feel ill? What is the matter? Are you faint?
“‘Come along, Pat, step lively. Bring your prisoner in, and call Doctor Gray. Mr. Pearson is very ill.’
“The prisoner entered, saying: ‘I am so glad to see you here and see you looking so refreshed.’
“‘Yes, I think I shall hold my fresh looks a long time here and have a myth, like you, to deal with.’
“‘I beg your pardon, sir, I have not caused you any trouble. I am not disobeying the rules. I never have.’