"Have you heard any talk in the village of this ghost lately?"
"Frequently, sir. Three people swear they've seen it."
"How do they describe it?"
"They all agree to horns, sir, and a shapeless head."
"Do you believe in ghosts, Joseph?"
"That depends, sir."
"On what, fool?"
"On who sees them sir."
"You were almost famous for the possession of what is called 'nerves of iron' in your predatory days, if I remember rightly, Joseph?"
The obsequious Joseph started slightly and his bow was servile.