He was plainly on pins and needles, did not know whether to take or to refuse the segar, and, after he had taken it, did not know whether to light or to return it.

I saw he had something to say; I did not think it was his own something; and I was ready to offer a large bet it was really something of Major Chevenix's.
'Well, and so here you are!' I observed, with pointless cordiality, for I was bound I should do nothing to help him out.

If he were, indeed, here running errands for my rival, he might have a fair field, but certainly no favour.
'The fact is,' he began, 'I would rather see you alone.' 'Why, certainly,' I replied.

'Rowley, you can step into the bedroom.

My dear fellow,' I continued, 'this sounds serious.