"Who the devil asked her to see us?" rapped out Captain Barker.
"You are to take these two letters," interposed Captain Runacles.
Each captain held out his letter. "You are to take these two--blow
your nose and dry your eyes--letters to your mistress at once--mind
you, _at once_--and together--_together_, you understand, and--what
in thunder are you whimpering about?"
"I c-c-can't, sirs."
"Can't! Why, in the name of--don't drip on 'em, I tell you! Why, in
the name of--"
The iron gate creaked behind them, and the two captains turned their
heads. A portly, broad-shouldered gentleman, in a suit of snuff
colour, came slowly across the court, with both hands behind him, and
a cane rapping against his heels.
"Dr. Beckerleg."
"Hey? Why--Captain Barker! Captain Runacles! Glad to see you
both--glad to see you both home again! Also I'd be glad to know what
you're both doing here, at such a time."
The captains looked at each other and coughed. They turned towards
the doorway. The serving-girl had disappeared, taking their letters
with her. Captain Barker faced round upon the Doctor.
"You said 'at such a time,' sir."
"I did."
"And why not at this time, as well as another?"
"God bless me! Is it possible you don't know?"
"It is not only possible, but certain.
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