"
"Oh!" exclaimed the Captain, "I see--young Beverley, son of old
Beverley--and a devilish good name too!"
"Sir, I'm vastly relieved to hear you say so," retorted Barnabas,
with a profound obeisance. Then taking out his purse, he beckoned
his new groom to approach.
"What is your name?" he inquired, as he counted out a certain sum.
"Gabriel Martin, sir."
"Then, Martin, pray give the fellow his money."
"Sir?"
"I mean the red-faced man in the dirty jacket, Martin," added
Barnabas.
The old groom hesitated, glanced from the Captain's scowling brow to
the smiling lips of Barnabas.
"Very good, sir," said he, touching his shabby hat, and taking the
money Barnabas held out, he tendered it to the Captain, who, redder
of face than ever, took it, stared from it to Barnabas, and whistled.
"Now, damme!" he exclaimed, "damme, if I don't believe the fellow
means to be offensive!"
"If so, sir, the desire would seem to be mutual!" returned Barnabas.
"Yes, b'gad! I really believe he means to be offensive!" repeated
the Captain, nodding as he pocketed the money.
"Of that you are the best judge, sir," Barnabas retorted.
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