continue, I merely added--

"Well, at this rate of proceeding we shall get at the matter in hand, on
our way out to Corfu, for I hear we are the next regiment for the
Mediterranean."

The observation seemed to have some effect in rousing him from his
lethargy, and he added--

"If you only knew the nature of the attachment, and how completely all my
future hopes are concerned upon the issue--"

"Ho!" said I, "so it's a money affair, is it? and is it old Watson has
issued the writ? I'll bet a hundred."

"Well, upon my soul, Lorrequer," said he, jumping from his chair, and
speaking with more energy than he had before evinced, "you are, without
exception, the most worldly-minded, cold-blooded fellow I ever met. What
have I said that could have led you to suppose I had either a duel or a
law-suit upon my hands this morning? Learn, once and for all, man, that
I am in love--desperately and over head and ears in love."

"Et puis," said I coolly.

"And intend to marry immediately."

"Oh, very well," said I; "the fighting and debt will come later, that's
all. But to return--now for the lady."

"Come, you must make a guess."