'Proceed with business, Mr. Harland.' That gentleman, walking up to
Mr. Drummond, said:

'I wish a word with you-Is your master indisposed?'

'He declares that he took a violent cold, and has been suffering of
shivers all night.'

'I am very sorry; at the same time I must point out to you the
propriety of at once requesting him to unwrap, that we may proceed.
You are aware, I presume, of the quantity and denomination of the
apparel for such an occasion.' Drummond joined the bulky Mr. Ham; and
it was noticed as he conversed that that gentleman turned from his
morning pallor to a positive yellow. He at first seemed to refuse;
but at last, with a cry much like the low whine of a terrified
animal, he began to take off his wraps. In doing this he turned his
back upon the other party.

'You will pardon me, gentlemen,' Harland said, as he stepped to the
front; 'but I believe I have the right under such extraordinary
circumstances to obtrude myself here.'

'What do you mean, sir? How dare you come here?' cried Mr. Ham in
his fear and rage.

'To see that you are disrobed properly, Mr. Ham. If you will permit
it the medical gentleman here will decide whether upon such a
windless, sunny morning, you require all this raiment. At least you
will not require all this leather,' he exclaimed, as he drew out a
huge piece which had been fitted so as to cover the entire front of