But there new trouble awaited him. On the doorstep still sat the three gentlemen.
When they saw him they rose to their feet.
“I know, I know what you have to say,” gasped Joseph. “In pity do not attack me all together. One at a time. With your leave, Mr. Vicar, will you step up first into my humble little sanctum, and I will receive the others later. I believe that the smell of bacon and eggs is gone from the room. I left the window open.”
“I will most certainly follow you,” said the Vicar of Swanton. “This is a most serious matter.”
“Excuse me, will you take a chair?”
“No, thank you; I can speak best when on my legs. I lose impressiveness when seated. But I fear, alas! that gift has been taken from me. Sir! sir! you have put me into your book. My earthly tabernacle may be here, stand
