"No, no," said Benson, peremptorily.

"You ain't fit to go down, sir," persisted his follower. "I've never
seen you look so before. Now if--"

"Mind your business," said his master curtly.

George became silent and the three walked with swinging strides through
the long wet grass to the well. Bob flung the rope on the ground and at
a sign from his master handed him the candlestick.

"Here's the line for it, sir," said Bob, fumbling in his pockets.

Benson took it from him and slowly tied it to the candlestick. Then he
placed it on the edge of the well, and striking a match, lit the candle
and began slowly to lower it.

"Hold hard, sir," said George, quickly, laying his hand on his arm, "you
must tilt it or the string'll burn through."

Even as he spoke the string parted and the candlestick fell into the
water below.

Benson swore quietly.

"I'll soon get another," said George, starting up.

"Never mind, the well's all right," said Benson.

"It won't take a moment, sir," said the other over his shoulder.