SKRUFF. I should, very much— I mean no, of course not.
TAUNT. What were you going to say, Mr.—Stuff?
SKRUFF. Skruff! (Aside.) I wish Miss Hetty had broken the “painful intelligence” to him herself. I don’t relish the idea of being “snuffed out” at thirty paces. Never mind, I’ll risk it. (Aloud.) Captain Taunton, I believe?
TAUNT. Well, sir, what then? (angrily).
SKRUFF. Now don’t be jumping down my throat because I’ve an unpleasant duty to perform. In a word—I deeply regret to inform you—
TAUNT. (fiercely). You, sir?
SKRUFF. I mean. Miss Halliday begs me to inform you—
TAUNT. (impetuously). Go on!
SKRUFF. I’m going to go on, sir.
TAUNT. Miss Halliday begs you to inform me—what?