"I observed through the window a visitor, fairest Belinda."
"Ah! I was so closely engaged," says Sir Asinus, "like a knight of the middle ages, I thought only of my 'ladye faire.' Nothing can move me from her side!"
"Indeed?" says Jacques.
"Nothing!"
"Well, well, at least I have not counselled such desertion on your part. The visitor at the gate there is Doctor Small from college. I only thought I'd mention it!"
Like an electric shock dart the words of Jacques through the frame of the chivalric Sir Asinus. He starts to his feet—gazes around him despairingly, seeking a place of refuge.
The step of worthy Doctor Small is heard upon the portico; Sir Asinus quakes.
"Are you unwell, my dear friend?" asks Jacques with melancholy interest.
"I am—really—come, Jacques!" stammers Sir Asinus.
"Are you indisposed?"