"Now don't be in such a confounded hurry.

Can't you talk with an old friend for a minute or so?
Look here, I've been thinking--let me see--what was I going to say ?" The mind of Ellis was growing more and more confused; nor was the head of Wilkinson so clear as when he entered the bar-room.

The strong glass of brandy toddy was doing its work on both of them.
"Let me see," went on Ellis, in a wandering way.

"I was speaking of Cara--oh, yes, of Cara.

Bless her heart, but confound her crooked temper! Now, what would you advise me to do, my old friend ?" "Go home, I have said," replied Wilkinson.
"And get my head combed with a three-legged stool?
No, blast me if I do! I've stayed out this long just to make her sensible of her unkindness to one of the best of husbands--and I'm not going home until I am dead drunk.