Captain Verney rose and bowed.
“I beg pardon,� he said, “I did not catch your name.�
“Captain Head, at your service.�
“That’s queer,� said Grimstone; “Head and Hand.�
“Sit down,� said the host. “Oh, by George, the servants have gone and—Verney, you are the youngest and you know the way, would you fetch some wine for us from the cellar?�
McLane said a word to his Lieutenant, who rose, apologizing. “I want to see to the horses. Be back in a moment.�
In the hall he saw Verney take a lantern and go down to the cellar. The Lieutenant waited a moment, shot bolt and lock behind the Captain, and, returning, sat down by Galloway.
“Pray throw off your cloaks, gentlemen,� said Penn. “Will you drink, Captain Head?�
McLane cast his cloak back from his left shoulder and set a hand on his pistols.
“I never drink while on duty, Mr. Penn. You must hold me excused.�