I had scarcely done so, however, when there came a timid knock at the door, whereat I rose expectantly, and immediately sat down again.
"Come in!" said I. The latch was slowly raised, the door swung open, and the Ancient appeared. If I was surprised to see him at such an hour, he was even more so, for, at sight of me, his mouth opened, and he stood staring speechlessly, leaning upon his stick.
"Why, Ancient," said I, "you are early abroad this morning!"
"Lord!" he exclaimed, scarcely above a whisper.
"Come in and sit down," said I.
"Lord! Lord!" he murmured, "an' a-satin' 'is breakfus' tu. Lordy, Lord!"
"Yes," I nodded, "and, such as it is, you are heartily welcome to share it—sit down," and I drew up my other chair.
"A-eatin' 'is breakfus' as ever was!" repeated the old man, without moving.
"And why not, Ancient?"
"Why not?" he repeated disdainfully. "'Cause breakfus' can't be ate by a corp', can it?"