Cathcart shook his head. “I guess a little noise is to be expected today, Bert,” he answered. “I saw the crowd and just came over to congratulate you.”
“Good old Wal!” shouted Nick. “Speech! Speech! Shut up, fellows, Cathcart’s going to speech!”
But Cathcart shook his head and smiled. “I’ve said it,” he replied.
“Short and to the point,” applauded Roy Dresser. “Brevity, young gentlemen, is the soul of wit. Say, Hobo, what happened to you, anyway? I’ve heard forty-eleven yarns. Why didn’t you play?”
“Yes, what’s the real answer?” demanded Hanrihan.
“Bowles’ll know,” declared Nick. “Speak up, Bowles, old top! Gentlemen, we have with us this evening ’is ’Ighness’s tried and trusted retainer, Mr. Bowles. A short cheer for Bowles, fellows!”
“Rah, rah, rah! Bowles!” was the instant and enthusiastic response. Bowles looked distinctly uncomfortable, although he tried hard to smile a respectful smile.
“Now, then, Bowles, out with it!” demanded Nick. “What was this vile conspiracy to——”
“Really, sir, I’m not at liberty——”
“Bowles, shut up!” warned Hugh sharply.