The Doctor, winking at me, got hold of the stony but still excited Puffin.
"Let him have his blessed solo early, my boy," said the Triangle. "The big people won't have taken their seats by then. You'll have it all your own way."
To this day I believe the Doctor had a professional impulse in this advice.
During a lull Puffin spoke.
"Let Mr. Gasper have his solo in the first part. I flatter myself I can face the inferior position without any fear."
"You are so modest," retorted the delighted Gasper. "Put it down, Basscleff. Solo (Cornet) 'The Wind from the Sea,' Vulvini—George Gasper, Esq."
"That's my solo," shouted Puffin; "and I'll play it!"
Spare me the recital of the ensuing scene.
"Listen to me," said the Triangle, maliciously. "We must come to hard facts, I plainly see. The truth is, the difference between Mr. Gasper and Mr. Puffin (both admirable performers) has assumed the aspect of direct rivalry; I may go so far as to say, antagonism. Laudable, so far as art is concerned; lamentable for the ill-feeling promoted. I suggest that, for the setting at rest of the unfortunate dispute, and the better spirit of the Society, it be arranged that the two gentlemen do play the same solo at the same concert."