It was when that combustible was first introduced into Ireland as a dinner beverage that the occurrence took place, and Andy had the luck to be the person to whom a gentleman applied for some soda-water.
"Sir?" said Andy.
"Soda-water," said the guest, in that subdued tone in which people are apt to name their wants at a dinner-table.
Andy went to the butler. "Mr. Morgan, there's a gintleman——"
"Let me alone, will you?" said Mr. Morgan.
Andy manœuvred round him a little longer, and again essayed to be heard.
"Mr. Morgan!"
"Don't you see I'm as busy as I can be? Can't you do it yourself?"
"I dunna what he wants."
"Well, go ax him," said Mr. Morgan.