‘Then,’ said the master of the police, ‘I lost no time in repairing to a very clever naturalist who stuffs animals for the Academy of Sciences; for in short, since there was not any alternative, I deemed it only proper, and out of respect for your feelings, that you should be stuffed in the best manner possible.’
‘And the wretch has consented?’
‘He referred me to his colleague, who stuffs apes, having studied the analogy between the human species and the monkey tribe.’
‘Well?’
‘Well, sir, he awaits you.’
‘How! he awaits me! But is the order so peremptory?’
‘Not an instant must be lost, my dear sir; the order of Her Majesty does not admit of delay.’
‘Without granting me time to put my affairs in order? But it is impossible!’
‘Alas! it is but too true, sir.’