Kennaston tried to soothe him. But the Colonel clamoured to the
heavens. Kennaston he qualified in various ways. And as for Dr. Jeal,
he would hold him responsible--"personally, sir"--for the consequences
of his dawdling in this fashion--"Damme, sir, like a damn' snail with
a wooden leg!"
"I am afraid," said Kennaston, gravely, "that the doctor will be of
very little use when he does arrive."
There was that in his face which made the Colonel pause in his
objurgations.
"Sir," said the Colonel, "what--do--you--mean?" He found articulation