"I have often thought----" The sentence was never completed, being interrupted by a thundering rat-tat-tat at the front door, followed by a pealing at the bell, which indicated that the visitor was manfully following the printed injunction to "Ring also." The door was opened and a man's voice was heard in the hall-a loud, confident voice, at the sound of which Mr.Chalk, with one horrified glance in the direction of Captain Bowers, sank back in his chair and held his breath.
"Captain Brisket," said the maid, opening the door.
The captain came in with a light, bustling step, and, having shaken Mr.
Chalk's hand with great fervour and acknowledged the presence of Captain Bowers and Mrs.Chalk by two spasmodic jerks of the head, sat bolt-upright on the edge of a chair and beamed brightly upon the horrified Chalk.
"I've got news," he said, hoarsely.
"News ?" said the unfortunate Mr.Chalk, faintly.
"Ah!" said Brisket, nodding.

"News! I've got her at last." Mrs.Chalk started.
"I've got her," continued Captain Brisket, with an air of great enjoyment; "and a fine job I had of it, I can tell you.

Old Todd said he couldn't bear parting with her.

Once or twice I thought he meant it." Mr.Chalk made a desperate effort to catch his eye, but in vain.

It was fixed in reminiscent joy on the ceiling.
"We haggled about her for days," continued Brisket; "but at last I won.
The _Fair Emily_ is yours, sir." "The fair who ?" cried Mrs.Chalk, in a terrible voice.