“Why, sir, we did; it would be a devilish nice business if a party led and commanded by George Johnston should go out without hearin' and seein' something.”
“Well, but what did you see and hear, sir?”
“Why, we saw Reilly's house, and a very comfortable one it is; and we heard from the servants that he wasn't at home.”
“You're drunk, Johnston.”
“No, sir, begging your pardon, I'm only hearty; besides, I never discharge my duty half so well as when I'm drunk; If feel no colors then.”
“Johnston, if I ever know you to get drunk on duty again I shall have you reduced.”
“Reduced!” replied Johnston, “curse the fig I care whether you do or not; I'm actin' as a volunteer, and I'll resign.”
“Come, sir,” replied Sir Robert, “be quiet; I will overlook this, for you are a very good man if you could keep yourself sober.”
“I told you before, Sir Robert, that I'm a better man when I'm drunk.”
“Silence, sir, or I shall order you out of the room.”