I go myself, as I say; and perhaps you will
think I have no right to add words to my example."
"On the contrary," replied Mr. Morris, "I am obliged to you for all
you say. It would be impossible to exaggerate the gravity of my
proposal."
"Well, gentlemen, what do you say?" said the tall man, addressing
the others. "We have had our evening's frolic; shall we all go
homeward peaceably in a body? You will think well of my suggestion
in the morning, when you see the sun again in innocence and
safety."
The speaker pronounced the last words with an intonation which
added to their force; and his face wore a singular expression, full
of gravity and significance. Another of the company rose hastily,
and, with some appearance of alarm, prepared to take his leave.
There were only two who held their ground, Brackenbury and an old
red-nosed cavalry Major; but these two preserved a nonchalant
demeanour, and, beyond a look of intelligence which they rapidly
exchanged, appeared entirely foreign to the discussion that had
just been terminated.
Mr. Morris conducted the deserters as far as the door, which he
closed upon their heels; then he turned round, disclosing a
countenance of mingled relief and animation, and addressed the two
officers as follows.
"I have chosen my men like Joshua in the Bible," said Mr. Morris,
"and I now believe I have the pick of London. Your appearance
pleased my hansom cabmen; then it delighted me; I have watched your
behaviour in a strange company, and under the most unusual
circumstances: I have studied how you played and how you bore your
losses; lastly, I have put you to the test of a staggering
announcement, and you received it like an invitation to dinner.
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