"When you use that tone, Jack, I know you'll do't. But how you'll contrive thing so impossible is beyond me. And talking of Dalroyd the resemblance is strong, he's very like——"
"Ah, you mean like Effingham."
"Aye, like Effingham—and yet again he's—different, Jack, and besides 'tis impossible!"
"Ten years must needs alter a man," said the Major thoughtfully. "George, I'd give very much to know if Dalroyd bears a certain scar."
"Impossible, Jack—quite, your thrust was too sure."
"Hum!" said the Major, "howbeit I cross blades with Dalroyd as soon as possible, which reminds me I've made no will and 'tis best to be prepared, George, and you shall witness it if you will."
So the document was drawn up, blunt and soldier-like, and duly attested.
"A will, Jack," said the Colonel throwing down the pen, "is a curst dust to dust and dry bones business, let's ha' another bottle."
"Egad, and so we will!" answered the Major. "And drink success to thy wooing, George."