He'll still be at Calais when we arrive." "But when we do catch him at Calais," said the Professor, "what are we going to do ?" At this question the countenance of Dr.Bull fell for the first time.

He reflected a little, and then said-- "Theoretically, I suppose, we ought to call the police." "Not I," said Syme.

"Theoretically I ought to drown myself first.

I promised a poor fellow, who was a real modern pessimist, on my word of honour not to tell the police.

I'm no hand at casuistry, but I can't break my word to a modern pessimist.