"Indeed sir, 'twas very ingenious."
"Od's body, sir, I think you've a judgment to be commended, I venture to opine it was ingenious—and therewith not lacking in wit, sir?"
"By no means, Sir Benjamin."
"To be sure the last line might be bettered, though it cost me a world o' thought. 'Twas if I remember:
'Yea you, yourself to yearn as beauty ought.'
Yet od's my life sir! I fail to see how it should be bettered. Y is an awkward, stubborn, damned implacable letter at best, sir."
"Truly a most awkward letter, Sir Benjamin."
Here Mr. Marchdale slammed down his cards petulantly.
"So!" he exclaimed, "that makes another fifteen guineas!"
"Twenty-five, my dear Marchdale!" smiled Mr. Dalroyd, taking up a new pack.