I tell you, I must see her reply to this Lieutenant Pierson." Barto stuck his thumb and finger astride Luigi's shoulder and began rocking him gently, with a horrible meditative expression.

"You will have to accomplish this, my Luigi.

All fair excuses will be made, if you fail generally.

This you must do.

Keep upright while I am speaking to you! The excuses will be made; but I, not you, must make them: bear that in mind.