I returned thanks, and gave the health of Captain Gabion, R.E.
Captain Gabion returned thanks, sat down, and rose a second time, but was anticipated by Gingham again, who gave the health of Mr Commissary Capsicum.
Mr Commissary Capsicum returned thanks.
With respect to the dinner, it would not do. It was our last day before sailing; Gingham had whole reams of letters to write; I also had matters to attend to; we pleaded the circumstances, and begged to be excused. Our friends saw the difficulty, and reluctantly accepted our apologies.
There was a moment's pause. Then all three rose from the table at once, again thanked us politely for our hospitality, and withdrew to their private apartments. Shortly after, looking out of the window, I saw them walking down the street, all arm in arm, and each puffing a cigar.
Gingham stood pensive by the fire, his elbow on the mantelpiece, his head leaning on his hand.
"I fear," said I, "your exertions to entertain your guests have wearied you."
He made no reply. I went up to him. He seemed to awake as from a reverie.
"Hang it!" said Gingham, in a plaintive tone, "there should have been some mashed potatoes."
"Never mind, my dear sir—excellent breakfast; everything went off capitally. I, for one, enjoyed it amazingly."