He misunderstood.

Taking the glass distractedly, he drained it to the dregs, clapped a hand to his windpipe, and collapsed, sputtering, in a chair facing the Doctor.
"Oh, what have I done ?" wailed Miss Marty.
"He deserved it!" The Doctor pulled himself together, stood erect, and, lurching forward, gripped Mr.Basket by the shoulder.
"Sir, this lady is my affianced wife!" "Would you--mind--tapping me in the back ?" pleaded Mr.Basket, between the catches of his breath.
"Not at all, sir." The Doctor complied.

"As I was saying, this lady is my affianced wife.

Though Major Hymen were ten thousand times my friend--by placing both hands on your stomach and bending forward a little you will find yourself relieved--though Major Hymen were ten thousand times my friend, it should be over my prostrate body, sir; and so you may go back and tell him!" "But I can't find him!" almost screamed Mr.Basket.
"He has disappeared!" quavered Miss Marty.
"It's the best thing he could do!" Dr.Hansombody folded his arms and looked at Mr.Basket with fierce decision.

"Disappeared?
Where ?" They answered him in agitated duetto.