"Yes, sir."
"A large one."
"Yes, sir."
"And make haste about it."
The waiter left the room, while the others glanced at each other significantly.
"How many is that to-night?" said one in a low voice.
"Heaven knows, I don't. He's on the drink again."
"If I'd taken half he's had, I should have to be carried to bed."
"Pity, isn't it? He's ruining his career."
"I don't know. He never shows he's been drinking. He's always at his best when he's drunk."