"That's the trouble with these men," said the Alchemist; "they are all so absent-minded. If I were not here to think for them, I don't know what would become of the business."
"Excuse me——" began Billy.
"Certainly," interrupted the Alchemist, absent-mindedly putting some gun-cotton in his ears.
"I was going to say—did you say you were making a sample eruption?"
"Did you speak to me? I seem to have heard you speak."
"Yes, sir."
"I can't hear a word you say—I'm afraid I'm growing deaf. Now what did I do with that gun-cotton I had a moment ago?" and the Alchemist looked for it in every place but in his ears. But Billy, by making motions, showed him where it was, and he pulled it out in great surprise. "You shouldn't do that," said he severely, "it's a very dangerous thing."
"But I didn't," said Billy; "you did it yourself."
"Tut-tut—why should I put gun-cotton in my own ears? I never listen to evil reports."
Billy was just about to make further denial when the Coal Man put his head through the door and beckoned to him. "Nickel Plate is coming down in the elevator," said he, as soon as Billy reached his side.