‘Very pretty; a first-rate imitation. But suppose we try something else now for a change. Come, old fellow, step out with a good will. Ah! you won’t. You’re going to cut up rough, are you? Here, my man, lay hold and turn him out.’
‘He won’t walk, sergeant.’
‘Well, what are the butt ends of your muskets for? Come, a tap or two will do no harm.’
‘Grrrooonnn—Grrrooonnn—Grrrooonnn—’
‘Go on, give it him well!’
‘I say, sergeant,’ said one of the men, ‘it strikes me he’s a real bear. I caught hold of him by the collar just now, and the skin seems to grow on the flesh.’
‘Oh, if he’s a real bear treat him with every consideration. His owner might claim damages. Go and fetch the fireman’s lantern.’
‘Grrrooonnn.’
‘Here’s the lantern,’ said a man; ‘now then, throw some light on the prisoner.’
The soldier obeyed.